Who Gets EPS Pension and When
The Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS) provides a monthly pension to EPF members after retirement. But not everyone gets it—you need at least 10 years of service (can be across employers) and must reach 58 (or 50 for reduced pension). If you exit before 10 years, you get a lump sum, not pension. This guide explains EPS eligibility: service rules, age criteria, withdrawal options, and family pension. Use our EPS Calculator to estimate your pension.
Key Takeaways
- 10 years minimum: Service can be with one or multiple employers. Must be EPF member
- Age 58: Normal pension. Age 50: reduced pension. No pension before 50
- Before 10 years: Lump sum withdrawal. No monthly pension
- Family pension: Spouse, children (till 25), disabled child (lifetime). On member death
- Documentation: UAN, service certificate, bank details. Submit to EPFO
Minimum Service: 10 Years
To be eligible for monthly EPS pension, you must complete at least 10 years of service. Service can be with one employer or multiple—if you changed jobs, the total EPF membership period counts. Periods of break (if you withdrew EPF and rejoined) may not count; check with EPFO. Part-time work doesn't count unless covered under EPF. The 10 years is calculated from the date of joining EPS (post-1995) or as per transfer rules.
Retirement Age: 58 or 50
- Normal pension (58): Full pension as per formula. Pension starts from the month after 58th birthday.
- Early pension (50–58): You can opt for reduced pension from 50. Reduction is ~4% per year before 58. Example: pension at 58 = ₹5,000; at 55 = ~₹4,400.
- Deferred pension: If you leave before 58 but after 10 years, you can defer and claim at 58 for full pension, or claim reduced pension from 50.
If You Exit Before 10 Years
If you resign or retire before completing 10 years, you are not eligible for monthly pension. You can withdraw the EPS amount as a lump sum. The employer's EPS contribution (8.33% of basic) plus interest is paid to you. This is a one-time payout, not a pension. So if you change jobs frequently and never complete 10 years with EPF, you won't get EPS pension—only lump sum at each exit.
Pension Formula
Family Pension
- Spouse: Receives pension after member's death. For life or till remarriage (in some cases).
- Children: Till 25 years (or marriage for daughters). Disabled children: lifetime.
- Dependent parents: In absence of spouse/children.
- Nomination: Ensure nomination is updated. Helps in speedy settlement.
Documentation for Pension Claim
- UAN: Universal Account Number. Link Aadhaar, bank.
- Service certificate: From employer(s) showing joining/exit dates.
- Bank account: For pension credit. Must be in same name.
- Form 10D: For pension claim. Submit to EPFO through employer or online.
Use Our EPS Calculator
Enter pensionable salary and years of service. Get approximate pension amount. Plan retirement with EPF + EPS.
Disclaimer
EPS rules are complex and have changed over time. Verify with EPFO or employer. Pensionable salary cap and formula may vary by joining date.