Dear experts,
Can we appeal for relaxation against 7Q & 14B in case of late receiving PF account number from the PF Office? We received the PF code allotment letter in May '13 with a provisional coverage date of 7th Jan '13. We deposited PF in Jun '13 for Jan & Feb only and the rest in July/August. Now EPFO is asking for damages & interest charges from Jan '13. Are we liable to pay for Jan-May '13?
Please advise with evidence.
Timeline of Application & Applicability of PF Coverage
1. Did your company reach a strength of 20 employees in Jan '13? If yes, why was the application not submitted in Jan 2013, i.e., on 7th Jan 2013?
2. When was the application sent?
3. When did the Enforcement Officer visit your establishment and conduct the scrutiny of records?
4. For example, if the enforcement officer visited your establishment on 1st Feb 2013 and submitted the report on 7th Feb 2013, then as per the attached inter-circular for the revised process to be followed for the allotment of code number after the application is received.
If the delay is from the EPF department, damages can be waived, but interest cannot be waived. Furthermore, if we go to tribunal, then 75% of the respective damages & interest must be deposited, which is not refundable if the case is not in our favor.
For all the scenarios above, all submitted documents' proof is a must.
Regards,
Prakash Consultancy Services
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