EPFO launches worker enrolment drive and clarifies retirement interest rules

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has launched the Employees’ Enrolment Campaign, 2026, to expand social security coverage. The initiative allows establishments to regularize past records by enrolling eligible workers who were not covered by the EPF between April 1, 2009, and March 31, 2026. The campaign, which runs until October 31, 2026, offers administrative reliefs, such as waiving the employee’s share of contributions if it was not previously deducted, provided the workers are still active with the establishment.

Separately, the EPFO clarified rules regarding interest accrual on EPF accounts following retirement. For members retiring at age 55, interest will continue to accrue for three additional years, with the account becoming inoperative at age 58. The organization noted that an inoperative status does not block account access but signifies that interest accumulation will cease. This three-year interest window applies relative to the retirement age; for example, an account becomes inoperative three years after the member retires, provided the member retires at or after age 55.