Right to Provident Fund (PF) and ESI
Employers must contribute to EPF and ESI for eligible employees.
🗣️ What this means for you
If you earn up to ₹15,000 per month (basic + DA), your employer must register you under the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) scheme and deduct 12% from your salary while contributing an equal 12% from their side. For ESI, if you earn up to ₹21,000 per month, both you and your employer must contribute. These are your mandatory social security benefits.
Step-by-Step Action Plan
Check your salary slip for EPF and ESI deductions.
Verify your PF balance on the EPFO member portal (member.epfindia.gov.in) or via UMANG app.
If your employer is not deducting/depositing PF, file a complaint online at epfigms.gov.in.
You can also write to the Regional Provident Fund Commissioner (RPFC) of your area.
For ESI issues, contact the local ESI Branch Office or file a complaint on the ESIC portal.
The PF authorities can initiate recovery proceedings and impose damages on the defaulting employer.
⚖️ The Relevant Law
Employees' Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952 (1952)
Section 6 and Section 14B
"The employer shall contribute to the Provident Fund an amount equal to the contribution of the employee (12% of basic wages plus dearness allowance). Any establishment employing 20 or more persons is covered under this Act."
⚠️ Punishment / Penalty
Employer defaulting on PF contributions faces imprisonment up to 3 years and fine up to ₹10,000. Damages up to 100% of arrears can also be levied under Section 14B. For ESI default, imprisonment up to 2 years and fine up to ₹5,000.
Required Documents
- 📄Salary slips showing PF/ESI deductions
- 📄UAN (Universal Account Number) details
- 📄Employment proof (offer letter/ID card)
- 📄Bank statements showing salary credits
- 📄ESI card or IP number (if applicable)