EPF Interest Rate Remains Unchanged for 2024-25
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has decided to retain the 8.25% interest rate on Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) deposits for the financial year 2024-25. This decision was taken by the Central Board of Trustees (CBT) in a meeting held on Friday.
Earlier, in February 2024, EPFO had increased the interest rate from 8.15% (2022-23) to 8.25% (2023-24). The finalized interest rate will now be sent to the Finance Ministry for approval before being credited to members' accounts.
Lowest Interest Rates in Decades
EPF interest rates hit a four-decade low of 8.1% in 2021-22, marking a significant drop in returns for subscribers. However, since 2023-24, the interest rate has remained stable at 8.25%, providing a consistent return for employees.
EPF Interest Rate Approval Process
🔹 The CBT finalizes the EPF interest rate for a financial year.
🔹 Once approved, the new interest rate is credited to the EPF accounts of over 7 crore subscribers.
Who Will Benefit?
More than 7 crore EPF account holders will receive 8.25% interest on their deposits once the Finance Ministry approves the rate.
EPFO’s Claims & Settlements in 2024-25
📌 Till January 2025, EPFO has processed 5.08 million claims worth ₹2.05 trillion.
📌 In 2023-24, 44.5 million claims worth ₹1.82 trillion were settled.
Key Discussions in the EPFO Meeting
Apart from interest rate decisions, the CBT also discussed various issues, including:
✔️ Implementation of Supreme Court orders on higher PF pensions.
✔️ Employee Deposit Linked Insurance (EDLI) scheme proposals.
✔️ Other benefit-related revisions for EPF subscribers.
Final Thoughts
EPFO's decision to retain the 8.25% EPF interest rate ensures stable returns for employees. Once the Finance Ministry approves the decision, the interest amount will be credited to the accounts of 7 crore EPF subscribers.
