What to Do If Your PF Isn’t Deposited

Under the Employees' Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952, employers are legally obligated to deduct and deposit both the employee's and employer's share of the Provident Fund (PF) contributions into the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) account on a monthly basis. Failure to do so is a punishable offense under Section 14B of the Act.

Steps to Take If Your PF Contributions Are Not Deposited

Verify the Discrepancy

• Check Your EPF Balance: Log in to the EPFO Member Portal or use the UMANG app to verify if your contributions have been deposited.
• Review Salary Slips: Ensure that the PF deductions are reflected in your salary slips.

Communicate with Your Employer

• Contact HR or Payroll Department: Inform them about the issue and request clarification. Sometimes, delays may be due to administrative errors.
• Document Communication: Keep records of all communications for future reference.

File a Complaint with EPFO

If the issue remains unresolved:

• Online Grievance Portal: Visit the EPFiGMS portal to lodge a complaint. You'll need your Universal Account Number (UAN), EPF account number, and details of the grievance. epfigms.gov.in
• Offline Complaint: Submit a written complaint to the nearest EPFO office, providing all relevant documents.

Escalate the Matter

• Regional Provident Fund Commissioner: If the grievance is not addressed within 20 days, escalate the matter to the Regional Provident Fund Commissioner. EPFO
• Legal Action: Under Section 14B of the \, employers failing to deposit PF contributions are liable to penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

Important Points to Remember

• No Cost for Filing a Complaint: There are no fees associated with filing a grievance with EPFO.
• Interest on Delayed Payments: EPFO will ensure that interest is credited on delayed payments, even if the employer defaults.
• Employer's Responsibility: Employers are legally bound to deposit both their and the employee's share of PF contributions.
• Legal Recourse: If the employer continues to default, legal action can be initiated under the EPF Act.

EPFO Contact Information

Helpline Number: 1800-118-005

Website: https://www.epfindia.gov.in

What to Do If Your Employer Doesn't Deposit PF – FAQs

1. What is PF?

Provident Fund (PF) is a mandatory retirement savings scheme managed by the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) for eligible employees in India.

2. Who is covered under PF rules?

Any company with 20+ employees must provide PF to eligible workers. Some states have minor variations.

3. How much is deducted for PF?

12% of your basic salary is deducted from the employee and an equal contribution is made by the employer.

4. How can I check my PF balance?

Check through the EPFO Member Portal, the UMANG app, SMS, or missed call service.

5. What if my salary shows PF deduction but EPFO records don't?

This indicates your employer hasn't deposited your PF contributions.

6. Is non-depositing of PF illegal?

Yes, it is punishable under Section 14B of the EPF Act, 1952.

7. What documents do I need to lodge a complaint?

Salary slips, PF account number, employer details, and proof of deduction.

8. How can I file a complaint online?

Through the EPFiGMS portal using your UAN and EPF account details.

9. Can I file a complaint offline?

Yes, visit your nearest EPFO office with all relevant documents.

10. What action can EPFO take against defaulting employers?

EPFO can recover dues with interest, impose penalties, and initiate legal proceedings.

11. Can I approach the police?

Yes, under BNS Section 316 (criminal breach of trust), if the employer refuses to deposit PF.

12. Will I lose my money if the employer defaults?

No. EPFO will recover your PF along with applicable interest from the employer.

13. Can I withdraw PF if it's not fully deposited?

Yes, you can withdraw what has been deposited; the rest will be recovered by EPFO.

14. Is interest paid on delayed PF deposits?

Yes, EPFO ensures interest is credited for late contributions.

15. Are small companies exempt from PF?

Companies with fewer than 20 employees are generally exempt, but some states have exceptions.

16. Can employees opt out of PF?

Only in certain cases, e.g., first-time employment with basic salary > ₹15,000 in some states.

17. How long does PF recovery take?

It depends on EPFO's actions but generally takes a few months.

18. What if my employer challenges the complaint?

EPFO may issue notices, impose penalties, and initiate legal action to recover dues.

19. Where can I check the status of my complaint?

On the EPFiGMS portal using your grievance number.

20. Who can I contact for help?

EPFO Helpline: 1800-118-005, Website: www.epfindia.gov.in