Also, it has given employers time till January 15, 2025 to reply on the additional information or clarification sought by EPFO in over 4.66 lakh cases where applications have been received and examined by EPFO.
“In spite of so many extensions, it has been observed that more than 3.1 lakh applications for validation of options or joint options are still pending with employers,” EPFO said in a statement.
“Therefore, a final opportunity is being given to the employers till 31.01.2025 to ensure that employers process and upload these pending applications for validation of option / joint options,” it said citing multiple representations from employers and employers’ associations wherein requests were made for further extension of time to enable employers upload wage details of applicant pensioners or members.
“Employers are also requested to submit replies/update the information by 15.01.2025, in over 4.66 lakh cases where EPFO has sought additional information or clarification in respect of applications that have been received and examined by EPFO,” it said in a statement issued on Wednesday.
EPFO had created an online facility on February 26, 2023 for submitting applications for validation of options/joint options for pension on higher wages. The facility was for eligible pensioners/members following the Supreme Court order dated November 4, 2022. The initial window for submission was till May 3, 2023. However, the time limit was extended to June 26, 2023 in order to provide a complete four months time to eligible pensioners or members for filing applications and an additional 15 days were given till July 11, 2023 to address any problems in filing during this period.
According to EPFO, a total of 17.49 lakh applications for validation of optionor joint options were received from pensioners or members till July 11, 2023.
Further, multiple extensions were also given to employers to upload wage details of applicant pensioners or members till May 31, 2024 to ensure that employers are able to process the applications.