PF Return Filing Procedure
PF registration is the pivotal process through which an establishment or employer affiliates with the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO), marking their participation in the Provident Fund (PF) scheme.
This registration is obligatory for entities employing 20 or more individuals, while entities with fewer than 20 employees have the choice to opt in voluntarily.
Upon successful registration, the employer is bestowed with a unique PF code, serving as a cornerstone for all PF-related transactions, encompassing monthly contributions, withdrawals, and requisite filings.
Even entities with less than 20 employees possess the opportunity to voluntarily register for PF benefits, underscoring the inclusive nature of the scheme.
Employers vested with PF registration are bound by mandate to diligently file monthly returns, thereby upholding compliance with prevailing regulations, a testament to their commitment to statutory adherence and employee welfare.
Essential Documentation for EPFO Registration
These documents collectively form the bedrock of EPFO enrollment, ensuring smooth integration into the Provident Fund scheme.
Essential Forms for PF Return Filing
Various forms are required for Provident Fund (PF) return filing, each serving a specific purpose. Below is a list of the essential forms and their uses
Form 5
Registration of new employees and updating employee details (e.g., name, address, date of birth).
Form 10 D
Declaration and nomination of beneficiaries by employees.
Form 12A
Registration of establishments under the EPF scheme.
Form 3A
Monthly contribution details of employees.
Form 6A
Annual contribution details of employees.
Form 2 Part A
Nomination of recipients for EPF balance in case of account holder's death
Form 2 Part B
Includes nominee details from Part A and details of members eligible for children/widow pension. Requires signature or thumb impression.
PF Return Due Dates
The due dates for filing PF returns differ based on the type of establishment:
Private Establishments:
- Private establishments are required to file their returns on a monthly basis. The submissions are due by the 15th of the following month.
- For example, if the return period is January, the due date for the PF return is February 15th.
Government Establishments:
- Government establishments follow a quarterly filing schedule.
- Returns must be submitted by the end of the month following the end of each quarter.
- For instance, if the quarter ends on March 31st, the due date for the PF return is April 30th.
Important Due Dates:
| Type | Due Date |
|---|---|
| PF Payment | On or before the 15th of every month |
| PF Annual Return | 25th April of every year |
Failing to meet these deadlines can result in penalties and legal consequences.
At Covering Taxes, we ensure timely and accurate filing of your PF returns, helping you stay compliant and avoid any potential repercussions.
Consequences of Non-Compliance with PF Filing
Failure to comply with PF filing requirements can lead to significant penalties and legal actions. The EPFO can impose fines up to Rs. 5,000 per day for late submissions. Non-compliance also risks employee benefits, potentially causing delays or reductions in pension payments.
Penalty Rates Based on Delay Period:
| Period of Delay | Penalty Rate (per annum) |
|---|---|
| Up to 2 months | 5% |
| 2 – 4 months | 10% |
| 4 – 6 months | 15% |
| Above 6 months | 25% |
And 12% interest P.A for every single day under Section 7Q
Understanding and adhering to these deadlines is crucial to avoid these severe penalties and ensure uninterrupted employee benefits.
Requirements for EPF Returns
To file EPF returns, the following details and documents are essential:
- Employer Login ID
- Password for the Unified Portal EPFO
- Detailed salary statement including paid days
- Information on new joiners along with their family details
- Exit information for departing employees
- Employer’s contribution to EPF
- Employee’s contribution to EPF
Copy of the ECR Challan
- Universal Account Number (UAN) for each employee
- KYC compliance details for all employees
EPF Monthly Return Filing Plans
EPF Regular
- Exclusive of 18% GST
- PF Return Filing For up-to 30 Employees
- Support Employees For PF Transfer
- Prepare and rely on Notices
- Member's KYC Updates
- Wages Register
- Pay Extra 2999 For Live Filing
- .
- .
EPF Standard
- Exclusive of 18% GST
- PF Return Filing For Up-to 50 Employees
- Support Employees For PF Transfer
- Prepare and rely on Notices
- Member's KYC Updates
- Wages Register
- Pay Extra 4999 For Live Filing
- .
- .
EPF Premium
- Exclusive of 18% GST
- PF Return Filing For Up-to 100 or more than 100 Employees
- Support Employees For PF Transfer
- Inspection Handling
- Prepare and rely on Notices
- Member's KYC Updates
- Wages Register
- Pay Extra 7999 For Live Filiing
- .
Frequently Asked Questions
Continuous failure to file EPF returns from the time of registration can lead to serious repercussions. The EPFO may issue notices or summons to the concerned employer for non-compliance, potentially resulting in legal action and significant penalties. Ensuring timely and accurate filing is crucial to avoid these issues.
Once the overdue PF contributions are recovered, the members are entitled to receive full interest for each month of the delay. The delayed payment by the employer will not impact the interest accrued on the members’ contributions.
Before filing EPF returns, employers must register their employees with the EPFO through the employer portal to generate a Universal Account Number (UAN) or member ID. This involves submitting detailed information about each employee.
