Provident Fund (PF) is a mandatory social security scheme for employees in India, governed by the Employees' Provident Fund and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952. This comprehensive guide covers PF registration, contribution rates, filing procedures, and compliance requirements to help employers and employees understand their obligations and benefits.
PF compliance is governed by several key acts and schemes:
Our streamlined process ensures quick and hassle-free PF return filing:
Complete employer registration with EPFO, obtain establishment code, and set up digital signature certificate for online filing.
Keep accurate records of employee salaries, PF contributions, and maintain proper documentation for each pay period.
Make monthly PF contributions to EPFO within 15 days of the following month using online banking or challan.
File monthly PF returns (ECR) and annual returns online through the EPFO portal with accurate employee data.
Download and maintain acknowledgment receipts for all filed returns as proof of compliance.
| Filing Type | Period | Due Date |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | ECR Filing | 15th of following month |
| Contribution Payment | 15th of following month | |
| Annual | Annual Return | 30th April |
Find answers to common questions about PF return filing, eligibility, contribution rates, process, benefits, penalties, and compliance requirements.
PF return filing is the process of submitting monthly and annual returns to EPFO, including employee contribution details, employer contributions, and compliance with PF regulations.
Any establishment employing 20 or more employees must register with EPFO and comply with PF regulations within 30 days of reaching the threshold.
PF contributions must be deposited by the 15th of the following month. For example, January contributions are due by February 15th.
PF is mandatory for employees earning up to ₹15,000. Employees earning above ₹15,000 can voluntarily join PF if they wish.
Key forms include Form 12A (monthly return), Form 5 (return of ownership), Form 10 (return of contributions), Form 2A, 3A, and 6A (annual returns).
Late payments attract 12% interest per annum, plus penalty charges of ₹1,000 per month for delayed filing, and potential legal action.
UAN (Universal Account Number) is generated automatically by EPFO when an employee is registered. Employers must link UAN to employee records during filing.
Yes, Asktrix provides comprehensive PF compliance services including registration, monthly filing, annual returns, and ongoing support for all PF-related matters.
Directors who are employees and earn salary are covered under PF. However, directors who only receive sitting fees may be exempt from PF contributions.
PF is calculated as 12% of basic salary + DA for both employee and employer. Employer's 12% is split as 3.67% to PF and 8.33% to EPS.
Yes, PF returns can be filed online through the EPFO portal using digital signature certificates and proper authentication.
PF withdrawal is allowed for specific purposes like retirement, resignation, medical emergencies, or home purchase, subject to EPFO rules and conditions.
Yes, PF is applicable to contractual employees if they are employed for more than 120 days in a year and meet the salary criteria.
EPFO declares interest rates annually. For FY 2023-24, the interest rate is 8.15% per annum, credited to employee PF accounts.
No, PF contribution rates are uniform across India as per EPF Act. However, some states may have additional labor welfare schemes.
Ensuring proper PF compliance with Asktrix provides not only legal adherence but also peace of mind for both employers and employees. Our comprehensive approach ensures your organization meets all EPFO requirements efficiently and accurately, while securing the financial future of your workforce.