UPDATE: Pension Scheme Cut-Off Date Now September 30
June 28, 2025, 10:00 AM, New Delhi — The deadline for opting into the Unified Pension Scheme has been extended to September 30, 2025. The decision, impacting millions of employees nationwide, was taken to ensure maximum participation amid rising concerns about clarity and accessibility.
🟨 Why the Deadline Was Extended Again
The extension comes after multiple employee unions requested more time, citing confusion over eligibility and technical glitches in the application portal.
“We received thousands of queries from employees needing clarity,” said Alok Sharma, spokesperson for the Ministry of Labour. “This extension will help reach every eligible worker.”
🟨 Who Can Opt In and What’s at Stake
The Unified Pension Scheme allows eligible employees to choose a higher pension based on actual salary. Missing the deadline means defaulting to existing EPS rules.
Financial expert Rina Das explains, “This decision can affect retirement income by lakhs of rupees. It’s crucial that employees understand their options.”
🟨 How to Apply Before September 30
Employees must submit a joint option form through their employers and verify their application via the EPFO portal. Aadhar-linked UAN and digital signatures are mandatory.
“It’s essential to act early to avoid last-minute rush and avoid portal crashes,” warns Prakash Meena, a senior EPFO officer.
🟨 Will There Be Another Extension?
While some speculate this may not be the final deadline, government sources indicate otherwise. “There’s no plan for further extensions,” said an official who declined to be named.
Analysts believe this move puts pressure on institutions to streamline their communication and resolve pending queries quickly.
FAQs About Unified Pension Scheme Deadline
Q1: Who is eligible for the Unified Pension Scheme option?
A1: Employees who were part of EPFO before 2014 and contributed above the wage ceiling are eligible.
Q2: Can the deadline extend beyond September 30?
A2: As of now, there’s no official plan for further extension beyond the new cut-off.
