The Employees Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) has extended the application deadline for the third time. Members who are eligible can now apply for a higher pension through July 11.
The body in charge of the provident fund had previously extended the deadline twice, first from March 3 to May 3 and then to June 26. The deadline was extended to give pensioners more time to solve any issues they might have.
"Last opportunity of 15 days is being given to remove any difficulty faced by the eligible pensioners/ members. Accordingly, the last date for submission of Applications for Validation of Option / Joint Options by employees is extended to 11.07.2023," said the press release.
According to a statement released by the Employees' Provident Fund Organization, eligible pensioners and members will have only 15 days to resolve any issues.
It continued, "Accordingly, the last date for submission of Applications for Validation of Option/ Joint Options by employees is extended to July 11, 2023."
EPFO has made it possible to submit applications for the validation of options and joint options for a pension on higher wages online.
"Online facility has been made available by EPFO for submitting Applications for Validation of Options/Joint Options for pension on higher wages. The facility is for eligible pensioners/members in compliance with the Hon’ble Supreme Court order dated November 04, 2022," the statement said.
Raghunathan KE, a member representing employers on the Central Board of Trustees of EPFO, stated to PTI, "Timeline for applying for higher pension has been extended by 3 months for the employer and 15 days for the employee (member),."
He added that because these involve financial transactions, extensive verification is required.
"We are happy and complement EPFO for three months time for employers and also 15 days for employees. EPFO once again proves to be considerate and compassionate to field issues," he said.
According to the statement, any eligible pensioner or member who experiences difficulties submitting an online application for the validation of an option or joint option due to a problem with the updation of KYC may immediately submit a grievance to EPFiGMS for resolution.
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