Struggling with EPF Transfer Due to Pension Deduction Errors – What Should I Do Next?

Dear All,

I joined a company in July 2016 on a contract basis and was converted to the payroll in May 2018. I attempted to transfer my PF and pension to the current employer's PF account (the transfer was initiated in August 2021). However, both times my transfer request was rejected by the PF office, citing that wages were more than 15K and pension contributions were deducted.

Upon further investigation, I discovered that even though I was not eligible for a pension due to wages exceeding 15K, my initial employer had still deducted pension contributions, and this practice had been continued by the current employer.

Subsequently, my current employer advised me to rectify this with the ex-employer. However, despite more than 6 months passing, I have not received a satisfactory response from the ex-employer, and I did not receive interest this year.

I am unsure about the next steps to take, so I am seeking advice from experts.

Regards,
Raviprakash Mishra
Location: Noida, India

Steps to Resolve EPF and Pension Transfer Issue:

🔹 Contact the ex-employer: Reach out to your initial employer regarding the incorrect deduction of pension contributions despite being ineligible. Request them to rectify the error promptly.

🔹 Follow up with the ex-employer: If you have not received a satisfactory response within a reasonable timeframe, escalate the matter by sending formal written communication, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

🔹 Seek assistance from the PF office: Contact the PF office directly to explain the situation and provide any supporting documentation that proves your ineligibility for pension contributions. Request their guidance on the next steps to rectify the issue.

🔹 Lodge a formal complaint: If all attempts to resolve the matter amicably fail, consider filing a formal complaint with the appropriate authorities, such as the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), outlining the details of the discrepancy and seeking their intervention.

🔹 Consult with a legal advisor: If the issue remains unresolved despite your efforts, consider seeking legal advice to understand your rights and options for addressing the incorrect deductions and facilitating the transfer of your EPF and pension to the current account.

Taking proactive steps and engaging with the relevant parties directly can help expedite the resolution of the EPF and pension transfer issue, ensuring that your contributions are accurately reflected and transferred to the appropriate accounts.