EPFO Launches Amnesty Scheme for Provident Fund Trusts, Application Window Open Until December 28

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has announced a special amnesty scheme to regularize the exemption status of Provident Fund (PF) trusts. This initiative is intended for trusts that are recognized under the Income Tax Act but lack formal exemption orders under the EPF and MP Act, 1952, or the Code on Social Security, 2020.

The amnesty scheme was notified on June 29, 2026, and will remain effective until December 28, 2026. EPFO states that this is a one-time opportunity for establishments seeking to legally regularize their status.

Under this scheme, PF trusts may benefit from exemptions regarding certain requirements, such as fund size and minimum employee count. Following regularization, establishments can choose to comply as either exempted or non-exempted entities.

EPFO is actively working to spread awareness about this scheme. Workshops for stakeholders are being organized through regional offices. Additionally, cooperation has been sought from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) to ensure information reaches eligible PF trusts.

The organization has also reached out to the Income Tax Department to identify trusts that could benefit from the scheme. EPFO has requested that the Income Tax Department verify coverage status with EPFO before making decisions regarding the recognition of any trust.

Interested establishments can apply according to the detailed circular issued on July 11, 2026. This circular is available on the official EPFO website.

EPFO regional offices are providing guidance to applicants throughout the process. The primary objective of this campaign is to ensure that all potential beneficiaries can utilize this amnesty scheme and avoid future compliance-related issues.