EPFO opens VISHWAS, 2026 one-time settlement for PF damages at cut penalty rates

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EPFO has opened VISHWAS, 2026 — a one-time settlement scheme letting employers close long-pending EPF damages disputes at sharply reduced penalty rates.
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The window closes on 28 December 2026 and will not be extended.
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The Bombay, Madras and Kerala High Courts have directed establishments before them to settle under the scheme.

●VISHWAS, 2026: one-time settlement scheme to close pending EPF damages disputes; open until 28 December 2026, no extension.
●Penalty cut to 0.25% per month for delays up to 2 months, 0.50% for 2-4 months and 1% beyond 4 months, against up to 37% a year under normal rules.
●Covers delayed PF contributions from before 14 June 2024, including matters pending before courts and tribunals.
●On payment, EPFO issues a digitally signed Settlement Certificate and the pending proceedings stand closed.
●EPFO was formed on 4 March 1952; it works under the Ministry of Labour and Employment and is headquartered in New Delhi.
●Governing law: the Employees' Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952.
●Apex decision-making body: the Central Board of Trustees (EPF), chaired by the Union Minister of Labour and Employment.

upsc

GS Paper 2 > Governance > Welfare Schemes and Social Security

Damages under EPF law

A penalty levied on an employer for late deposit of provident fund contributions, distinct from the interest also payable on the delay.

Central Board of Trustees (EPF)

The tripartite apex body governing EPFO, with government, employer and employee representatives, chaired by the Union Labour Minister.

•Do not confuse damages with interest — VISHWAS cuts the damages, but outstanding interest must be cleared before applying.

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