PF Update: The latest news from EPFO states that the government has maintained the EPF interest rate at 8.25% for the fiscal year 2025-26. Interest is anticipated to be deposited into the PF accounts of more than 70 million members sometime this month, likely in June 2026, although the specific date has not been announced yet. Let’s delve into the important aspects regarding the interest to avoid any confusion.
To confirm if the interest has been deposited into your account, check your EPF balance promptly. Whenever EPFO credits interest, it promptly reflects in your EPF balance. You can verify your balance through various methods such as the UMANG App, EPFO Member e-Sewa Portal, Missed call service, SMS service, and also by instantly viewing the account summary through “Passbook Lite”.
An easy method to check your EPF balance via Passbook Lite is as follows
1. Visit the official website of EPFO Member Passbook.
2. Log in using your 12-digit UAN, password, and captcha displayed on the screen.
3. Verify the OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
4. Click on “View” and choose “Passbook Lite”.
5. You will find detailed information on recent contributions, withdrawals, and total balance.
Is there any disadvantage if there is a delay in crediting interest? Not at all. As per paragraph 60 of the EPF Scheme, 1952, interest is computed on the closing balance of each month, even if it is credited at the end of the year. EPFO has clarified that a delay in interest credit does not impact the subscriber negatively, as interest accrues continuously.
How is EPF interest deposited?
EPF interest is calculated on the monthly current balance at the annually declared statutory rate. This implies that interest is computed on the monthly balance in your account.
When does an EPF account become inactive?
An EPF account becomes inactive if no contributions are made for three consecutive years. Additionally, it becomes inactive after retirement, if the subscriber permanently relocates abroad, or in the event of the subscriber’s demise. Once an account is inactive, it stops earning interest. However, under current regulations, subscribers continue earning interest on their PF deposits until they turn 58, provided the account remains active. Therefore, if your PF account is active, anticipate the interest at the rate of 8.25% to start reflecting in your account by the end of June.