EPF Pension (EPS 1995) Guide 2025: Eligibility, Forms, Amount & Documents
- Pratyush Banke
- Oct 11
- 13 min read
Updated: 24 hours ago
Step-by-step EPF Pension (EPS) guide 2025. Learn eligibility, how to apply, pension amount & documents required for EPS pension application.
Introduction - EPF Pension (EPS) 2025
If you’ve ever tried to understand your EPF pension, you’ll know it isn’t always The Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS 1995) was designed to provide a steady source of income after retirement.
Yet, even today, many employees and their families are unsure about how it actually works. Questions like “Am I eligible?”, “How much pension will I receive?”, or “Which form should I fill?” often create more confusion than clarity.
What makes things harder is that even small mistakes, like a missing document, mismatched details, or late submission can delay pension approval for months. For someone who has just retired, or for a family already coping with the loss of a loved one, these hurdles add unnecessary stress.
That’s exactly why we created this guide. In the sections ahead, we’ll walk you through EPS 1995 in simple terms: who is eligible, how pension is calculated, the right forms to use, and the documents you’ll need. By the end, you’ll know how to avoid common delays, reduce confusion, and claim your pension with confidence.
What is EPF Pension under EPS 1995?
The Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS 1995) is a retirement benefit scheme managed by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). Introduced in 1995, its core purpose is simple: to provide employees with a regular monthly income after retirement and financial support to their family in case of the employee’s death.
Every month, when you and your employer contribute to the EPF, a small portion of your employer’s contribution doesn’t go into your PF balance. Instead, it is diverted into the EPS account. This pool of funds is what builds and sustains your future pension.
To put it simply:
EPF (Employees’ Provident Fund): A retirement lump sum that you receive after retirement or withdrawal, along with interest.
EPS (Employees’ Pension Scheme): A monthly pension that acts as a steady income stream once you retire.
Think of EPF and EPS as two pillars of your retirement plan, one gives you a nest egg for security, while the other ensures monthly income stability so you don’t have to rely only on savings.
Who is Eligible for the EPS 1995 Pension?
Not everyone who has an EPF account automatically qualifies for pension under EPS 1995. The scheme has specific conditions you need to meet. Here’s a simple breakdown:
1. Minimum Service Requirement
To get a pension, you must have worked for at least 10 years in an organization covered under EPFO and contributed to EPS during that period.
If you leave before completing 10 years, you won’t get a pension; you’ll only get the withdrawal benefit or a Scheme Certificate (which can be used later if you rejoin service).
2. Age Criteria for Pension
The standard retirement age for the EPS pension is 58 years.
If you’ve completed the service requirement, you can start receiving a pension once you turn 58.
You can apply after 50 years as well, but that counts as an early pension (with a reduced amount).
3. Early Retirement & Deferred Pension Rules
Early Pension: You can choose to start pension between 50–57 years, but the pension amount will be reduced (usually 4% less for every year before 58).
Deferred Pension: If you delay applying after 58, you may get a slightly higher pension because of extra service years added.
4. Family Pension (in case of death)
If the member passes away before or after retirement, their family is eligible for pension:
Spouse gets lifelong pension.
Children get pension till they turn 25 years.
If both parents have passed away, pension may go to dependent parents under certain conditions.
This ensures the family has some financial support in difficult times.
If you’re claiming pension on behalf of a deceased EPF member, the process can feel overwhelming.
You can read our dedicated EPF Death Claim Process Guide for a clear, step-by-step walkthrough - including timelines, required documents, and tips to avoid delays.
5. EPS Pension for NRIs
Yes, even NRIs can get EPS pension, provided they’ve worked in India in an EPFO-registered company and contributed to EPS. However, the process may involve additional paperwork like overseas bank account details or remittance arrangements.
In short, you’re eligible for EPS 1995 pension if you have 10 years of service and apply at 58 years (or later). Your family is also protected through family pension benefits if something happens to you.
Eligibility Factor | Condition | Details / Notes |
Minimum Service Requirement | At least 10 years of service with EPS contributions | If you leave before 10 years: you only get withdrawal benefit or a Scheme Certificate (to use later if you rejoin). |
Age for Pension | Standard age: 58 years | Full pension starts at 58 if service requirement is met. |
Early Pension | Allowed from 50–57 years | Pension is reduced (~4% less for every year before 58). |
Deferred Pension | Pension claimed after 58 years | Pension amount may increase slightly due to added service years. |
Family Pension | Payable to spouse, children, or dependent parents | · Spouse: Lifelong pension · Children: Till age 25 · Dependent parents: If both parents pass away |
EPS Pension for NRIs | Yes, NRIs are eligible | Must have worked in an EPFO-registered company and contributed to EPS. May need extra paperwork for overseas remittance. |
Quick Eligibility Checker:
Answer these 3 questions to know if you qualify:
1. Have you worked 10+ years in an EPFO-registered company?
2. Are you 50 years or older?
3. Did your employer contribute to EPS during your service?
If you answered YES to all three → You're eligible for pension
If NO to question 1 → You can only get Scheme Certificate or withdrawal
If NO to question 2 → You need to wait (but can start preparing documents now)
How Much Pension Will You Get? (Pension Calculation)
Once you know you’re eligible, the next big question is: “How much pension will I actually receive under EPS 1995?”
The good news is that EPS uses a straightforward formula to calculate monthly pension:
EPS Pension Formula
Monthly Pension = (Pensionable Salary × Pensionable Service) ÷ 70Pensionable Salary = Average monthly salary during the last 60 months of service (capped at ₹15,000 under EPS 1995).
Pensionable Service = Total years of contribution to EPS (minimum 10 years required).
Step-by-Step Example
Suppose:
Your pensionable salary = ₹15,000
Your pensionable service = 30 years
EPS Pension Formula:
Multiply Pensionable Salary × Pensionable Service→ 15,000 × 30 = 4,50,000
Divide the result by 70→ 4,50,000 ÷ 70 = ₹6,428
Final Pension = ₹6,428 per month
So, you’d receive ₹6,428 per month as your EPS pension after retirement.
If your salary is lower, or your years of service fewer, your pension amount will reduce.
Pension Calculation at a Glance
Here’s how pension looks at different service years and salaries:
Pensionable Salary | 10 Years of Service | 20 Years of Service | 30 Years of Service |
₹10,000 | ₹1,428 | ₹2,857 | ₹4,285 |
₹12,000 | ₹1,714 | ₹3,428 | ₹5,142 |
₹15,000 (Max cap) | ₹2,142 | ₹4,285 | ₹6,428 |
This table helps you quickly see where you fit without crunching the numbers yourself.
Maximum & Minimum Pension Limits
Maximum Pension: With the ₹15,000 wage ceiling, the pension rarely exceeds ₹7,500–₹8,000 per month.
Minimum Pension: Set at ₹1,000 per month by the government (with talks of an upward revision).
Impact of Service Less Than 10 Years
If you’ve contributed for less than 10 years:
You won’t be eligible for a monthly pension.
Instead, you can:
Withdraw the EPS balance (Withdrawal Benefit), OR
Apply for a Scheme Certificate, which carries forward your service if you join another EPFO-registered employer later.
In short, Your pension under EPS 1995 depends on two things: your last 5 years’ average salary (up to ₹15,000) and your total years of service. The longer you work, the closer you get to the maximum pension limit.
EPF Pension Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Applying for your EPF pension under EPS 1995 can feel overwhelming, but once you know the steps, it’s quite straightforward. Here’s a clear breakdown of how the process works:
1. Online vs. Offline Application
Online Application:
You can apply through the Unified Member Portal (UAN Portal).
Log in with your UAN and password, go to ‘Online Services’ → ‘Claim (Form-10D)’, and fill out the required details.
Upload scanned copies of your documents (Aadhaar, PAN, bank details, etc.).
Submit the claim online for employer verification.
Offline Application:
Download Form 10D from the EPFO website or collect it from your employer.
Fill in the details carefully, attach documents, and submit it to your last employer.
The employer forwards it to the regional EPFO office for processing.
Online is faster, but some members (especially family pension claimants) may still prefer or be required to apply offline.
2. Role of Employer in Verification
Your employer plays an important role in the pension claim process:
They verify and attest the details in your application form.
They confirm your service records and contributions to EPFO.
Without employer attestation, the EPFO usually won’t process the claim.
If the company has closed down or you cannot get employer verification, you may approach the EPFO directly with additional documents like service certificates.
3. Submission to EPFO / Pension Office
Once the employer verifies the application, it goes to the regional EPFO office.
EPFO checks your eligibility, documents, and service history.
If all details are correct, your pension account is set up, and payments start directly in your bank account every month.
4. Timeline for Pension Approval
Typically, pension claims take 1-3 months to be processed after submission.
Delays usually happen due to incomplete forms, missing KYC, or mismatched details.
Once approved, pension payments are credited monthly, just like a salary, into your registered bank account.
If you’re nearing retirement, it’s a good idea to start the pension application 2-3 months before your last working day, so you don’t face a gap in income.
Your Pension Application Timeline:
3 months before retirement:
Verify your UAN, Aadhaar, PAN linking
Update bank account in EPFO portal
Collect service certificates from employer
1 month before retirement:
Fill Form 10D
Get employer attestation
Upload documents online OR submit offline
After retirement:
Submit claim to EPFO
Track status on EPFO portal (typical wait: 1-3 months)
First pension credit arrives in your account
Pro Tip: Start this process early to avoid any gap in income after retirement.
Forms Required for EPS 1995 Pension
To claim pension under EPS 1995, you need to submit the right forms. The most important ones are Form 10D and, in some cases, Form 10C. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Form 10D – Pension Claim Form
This is the main form used for claiming monthly pension under EPS 1995.
Required when you reach the pensionable age (58 years) or when applying for family pension in case of death of the member.
Needs to be attested by your employer before submission.
Once processed, this form ensures your monthly pension is credited directly to your bank account.
2. Form 10C – Scheme Certificate / Withdrawal Benefit
Used when you have less than 10 years of service or if you’re leaving your job before becoming eligible for a pension.
You can either:
Withdraw the EPS balance, OR
Get a Scheme Certificate, which preserves your service years so they can be added if you join another EPFO-covered job later.
If you plan to continue working in the future, applying for a Scheme Certificate is usually better than withdrawing.
3. Where to Download These Forms
EPFO Website: Both Form 10D and 10C are available for download on the EPFO portal.
Employer / HR Department: Employers often provide these forms and guide employees on how to fill them.
Bank Branches: In some cases, the bank (where your pension will be credited) also keeps these forms.
4. Filling Tips to Avoid Rejection
Many pension claims are delayed or rejected because of small mistakes. Keep these tips in mind:
Ensure your name, date of birth, and Aadhaar details match exactly with EPFO records.
Write your UAN and PF account number clearly and correctly.
Attach all required documents (bank passbook, Aadhaar, photographs, etc.) in the right format.
If you’re submitting offline, make sure every page is signed and attested by the employer.
To put it simply: Form 10D = Pension, Form 10C = Service Certificate/Withdrawal. Choosing the right form at the right time will save you months of waiting and frustration.
Feature | Form 10D | Form 10C |
Purpose | To claim monthly pension under EPS 1995 | To claim withdrawal benefit (lump sum) OR get a Scheme Certificate |
When to Use | After completing 10 years of service and reaching 50/58 years (for early or regular pension) | If you leave before completing 10 years of service OR exit service before pensionable age |
Who Can Apply | · Retired employees (≥58 yrs) · Early retirees (50–57 yrs, reduced pension) · Family members (spouse/children/dependents in case of member’s death) | · Employees who served <10 years · Employees leaving job before 50 yrs · Members shifting jobs (to carry service years with Scheme Certificate) |
Benefit Type | Monthly pension for life (and family pension after death) | One-time withdrawal of EPS balance OR Scheme Certificate for future pension eligibility |
Key Notes | Once opted, pension continues monthly (cannot be withdrawn as lump sum) | Useful for employees who change jobs often or don’t complete minimum 10 years |
Documents Required for Pension Application
Before applying for your EPS 1995 pension, make sure you have the right documents ready. Missing or mismatched details are one of the biggest reasons for pension claim delays. Here’s a handy checklist:
1. Aadhaar and PAN Card
Aadhaar is mandatory for identity verification.
PAN is needed for tax compliance, especially if your pension is taxable.
Ensure both are linked with your UAN to avoid last-minute rejections.
2. Bank Passbook or Cancelled Cheque
Pension is credited directly to your bank account, so you’ll need:
A copy of your passbook, OR
A canceled cheque with your name printed on it.
The account should be single holder (not joint) in the name of the pensioner.
3. Service Certificate / Employment Details
Issued by your last employer to certify service details.
Confirms your joining date, exit date, and contributions made.
Without this, the EPFO may not process your pension claim.
4. Date of Birth Proof
Generally covered by Aadhaar, but in some cases, EPFO may ask for additional proof (like school certificate, passport, or voter ID).
Make sure the date of birth matches across all records.
5. Death Certificate (For Family Pension)
If the pension is being claimed by a spouse, child, or other eligible family member, a valid death certificate of the EPF member is compulsory.
This should be issued by the municipal authority or competent government body.
6. Passport-Size Photographs
Typically, two to three recent photographs are required.
Both the pensioner (or nominee) and sometimes the spouse must submit photographs for record verification.
In some cases, families discover unclaimed EPF or pension balances long after the member’s death. Our detailed guide on claiming unclaimed assets of deceased individuals explains how to trace, verify, and recover such funds across banks, EPFO, and insurance bodies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in EPS 1995 Pension Claims
Even if you meet all the eligibility rules, a small error in your pension application can lead to unnecessary delays or even rejection. Here are some of the most common mistakes applicants make and how you can avoid them:
1. Mismatch in KYC Documents
One of the top reasons for pension rejections.
If your name, date of birth, or father’s/spouse’s name is different across Aadhaar, PAN, UAN, or bank records, your claim will get flagged.
Fix: Update your KYC details in the EPFO portal before submitting the application.
2. Delay in Submission After Retirement
Many retirees wait too long to apply for their pension.
A delay can cause loss of pension arrears and extra verification steps.
Fix: Apply immediately after retirement or reaching the pensionable age (58 years).
3. Incorrect or Missing Employer Attestation
EPS 1995 pension forms need verification from your last employer.
Missing signatures, stamps, or incomplete employer details can stop the process.
Fix: Double-check that your employer has signed and stamped all forms before you submit them.
4. Confusing EPF Withdrawal with Pension Application
Many members think withdrawing EPF automatically starts their pension.
In reality, EPF (Provident Fund) and EPS (Pension Scheme) are two separate benefits.
Fix: File a separate pension application (Form 10D) for EPS 1995, even if you’ve already withdrawn your EPF balance.
Pro Tip: Treat your pension claim like a checklist exercise. Tick off documents, forms, and employer verification in advance, this simple step saves months of waiting later.
Many pension claims get delayed or rejected due to small oversights in EPS details. If you’ve already faced issues like KYC mismatches or missing service records, don’t worry, it’s fixable.
Check out our detailed guide on common EPS claim rejections and how to fix them to understand the most frequent errors and practical steps to resolve them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I apply for EPS 1995 pension online?
To apply for your EPS 1995 pension online:
Visit the EPFO Website: Go to epfindia.gov.in.
Login: Use your Universal Account Number (UAN) and password to log in.
Navigate to 'Online Services': Select 'Claim (Form-10D)'.
Fill in the Details: Complete the form with accurate information.
Upload Documents: Attach necessary documents like Aadhaar, PAN, and bank details.
Submit: After employer verification, your pension will be processed.
2. What is the minimum pension under EPS 1995?
As of July 2025, the Government has set a minimum pension of ₹1,000 per month under EPS 1995. This amount is provided through budgetary support and is in addition to the annual contribution of 1.16% of wages towards EPS.
3. Which form is required for EPF pension claim?
To claim your EPF pension:
Form 10D: Use this form if you have completed 10 years of eligible service and are applying for a monthly pension.
Form 10C: If you have less than 10 years of service, use this form to claim a scheme certificate or withdrawal benefit.
4. Can family members claim pension after the employee’s death?
Yes, family members can claim pension benefits under EPS 1995:
Eligibility: The deceased member's spouse, children (under 25 years), and dependent parents are eligible.
Conditions: Family pension is payable if the member had at least one month's contribution to the pension fund.
5. How long does EPS 1995 pension take to be sanctioned?
The processing time for EPS 1995 pension claims can vary:
Online Claims: Typically processed within 1–3 months after employer verification.
Offline Claims: May take longer due to manual processing.
Ensure all documents are correctly filled and submitted to avoid delays.
6. What documents are required for EPS 1995 pension application?
Commonly required documents include:
Aadhaar and PAN Card: For identity verification.
Bank Passbook or Canceled Cheque: For bank account details.
Service Certificate: To verify employment history.
Date of Birth Proof: Such as a birth certificate or school leaving certificate.
Death Certificate: If applying for family pension.
Photographs: Passport-sized for identification.
Ensure all documents are up-to-date and match the details in your EPF records.
7. Can I apply for EPS pension if I have less than 10 years of service?
Yes, if you have less than 10 years of service:
Form 10C: Use this form to claim a scheme certificate, which allows you to retain your pensionable service for future employment.
Family Pension: In case of death before 58 years, family pension is available even with less than 10 years of service.
8. Is there a hike in the minimum EPS pension?
Yes, there are discussions about increasing the minimum EPS pension:
Current Minimum: ₹1,000 per month.
Proposed Hike: The government is considering raising the minimum pension to ₹7,500 per month, with a potential implementation by May 2025.
9. How can I track my EPS pension application status?
To track your application:
Visit the EPFO Portal: Go to epfindia.gov.in.
Login: Use your UAN and password.
Navigate to 'Online Services': Select 'Track Claim Status'.
Enter Details: Provide the necessary information to view the status.
10. Can I apply for EPS pension after 58 years of age?
Yes, you can apply for EPS pension after 58 years:
Superannuation Pension: Available if you have completed 10 years of eligible service.
Early Pension: If you have less than 10 years, you can apply for a reduced pension or scheme certificate
Conclusion
Navigating EPS 1995 pension claims can feel overwhelming, whether it’s understanding eligibility, calculating your pension, filling the right forms, or gathering all the required documents. Small mistakes, missing paperwork, or delays in submission can add unnecessary stress, especially for retirees or families applying for pension after a loved one’s death.
Pension claims are just one part of managing a loved one’s financial legacy. If you’re also handling bank accounts, insurance, or property matters, explore our guide on managing finances after death in India - it covers every step to bring financial closure with clarity and care.
At Kustodian.life, we help you verify documents, fill forms correctly, and avoid common mistakes that cause delays. Our goal is to make sure your pension claim is processed smoothly and on time, so you or your family can enjoy financial security without the hassle.
Ready to simplify your EPS 1995 pension process? Schedule a call with our experts today and get personalized assistance every step of the way.
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