New Delhi: There is important news for salaried employees regarding their Provident Fund (PF), pension and insurance benefits. The Union Government has approved an increase in the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) wage ceiling from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 per month. The revised limit came into effect on September 17, 2026, and is expected to bring more than 51 lakh additional employees under the social security system.
Along with this development, EPFO has introduced a WhatsApp-based service that allows members to access important PF account information directly from their smartphones. By saving the official WhatsApp number 8796441800 and sending a simple ‘Hi’ message, members can access services such as checking their PF balance and viewing account transactions.
Here is everything employees need to know about the revised EPFO wage limit, available benefits, eligibility and WhatsApp services.
EPFO Wage Ceiling Increased From ₹15,000 to ₹25,000
The government has revised the monthly wage ceiling for mandatory EPFO coverage after keeping it unchanged at ₹15,000 since September 2014.
Under the updated provision, eligible employees earning between ₹15,000 and ₹25,000 per month will now come under mandatory coverage under the applicable EPF, EPS and EDLI provisions.
According to the government, this decision is expected to extend social security benefits to more than 51 lakh additional workers.
The announcement was also shared by EPFO on social media platform X, highlighting that the revised wage ceiling became effective on September 17, 2026.
This change will expand access to retirement savings, pension benefits and insurance protection for eligible employees working in EPFO-registered establishments.
What Benefits Do EPF, EPS and EDLI Provide?
Employees covered under EPFO receive benefits through three major social security schemes.
1. Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF): This scheme helps employees build retirement savings through contributions from both the employee and employer. The accumulated amount provides financial support after retirement.
2. Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS): Eligible members receive pension benefits under the applicable rules. The scheme provides financial support after retirement and in other qualifying circumstances.
3. Employees’ Deposit Linked Insurance (EDLI): This scheme provides insurance protection to eligible employees. If a member dies while in service, the nominee or legal heirs can receive insurance benefits of up to ₹7 lakh, subject to the applicable conditions.
Together, these schemes provide financial security through savings, pension and life insurance protection.
How to Enrol in EPFO and Get PF Benefits?
Employees who fall within the revised eligibility criteria can check their EPF membership status through their company’s HR or payroll department.
The following steps can help employees complete the process:
- Check eligibility: Confirm your applicable monthly PF wages and whether you fall within the revised ₹25,000 wage ceiling.
- Contact your HR department: Ask your employer about EPF enrolment and contribution arrangements.
- Submit required documents: Provide the necessary information, including Aadhaar details, bank account information and employment records.
- Verify PF contributions: Once enrolled, check your salary slip and EPFO passbook to ensure that contributions are being correctly recorded.
Employees should also verify that their personal and bank details are updated correctly in their EPFO accounts.
EPFO WhatsApp Service: Check PF Balance Using Your Mobile
EPFO has introduced a WhatsApp-based service to make important account-related information easier to access.
Members can use this facility without visiting an EPFO office for routine account enquiries. The service currently provides options such as:
- Checking the available PF account balance.
- Viewing EPF passbook information.
- Checking details of the last five transactions.
- Accessing relevant PF account services through WhatsApp.
This facility can make it easier for employees to stay updated about their provident fund accounts.
How to Use the EPFO WhatsApp Service?
Members can follow these simple instructions to connect with EPFO through WhatsApp:
- Save the official EPFO WhatsApp number 8796441800 in your mobile contacts.
- Open WhatsApp on your smartphone.
- Start a conversation with the saved EPFO number.
- Send a message saying Hi.
- Complete the required verification process.
- Select the service you want to access, such as PF balance or passbook details.
After completing verification, members can use the available options to obtain their PF account information.
Conclusion
The increase in the EPFO wage ceiling from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 is an important development for eligible salaried employees. The revision is expected to bring more than 51 lakh additional workers under PF, pension and insurance coverage.
At the same time, the WhatsApp service provides a convenient way to check PF balances, passbook information and recent transactions using a smartphone.
Employees should check their eligibility, keep their UAN and personal details updated, and regularly monitor their PF contributions to make proper use of these facilities.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for general informational purposes only. EPFO membership eligibility, contribution requirements, pension benefits and insurance coverage are governed by applicable government notifications and scheme rules. The revised wage ceiling and WhatsApp services may be subject to further official instructions. Readers should verify the latest information through the official EPFO website or authorised EPFO offices before making any decisions regarding their PF accounts.