Archive · 22 Jul 2026
EPFO Introduces VISHWAS 2026 Scheme for Penal Damages
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has launched the VISHWAS 2026 Scheme to help employers settle pending cases related to penal damages.
This scheme is available for six months starting from 29th June 2026.
Employers can apply through the EPFO Employer Portal and must pay any due interest before submitting their application.
The scheme offers reduced penal damages and a digital process for settling disputes.
Once the payment is made, EPFO issues a digitally signed VISHWAS certificate, which can be used to close pending cases.
The goal is to reduce litigation and promote compliance.
EPFO introduces VISHWAS 2026 Scheme for resolving pending penal damages cases.
Scheme available for six months from 29th June 2026.
Employers must pay due interest before applying through the EPFO Employer Portal.
Penal damages reduced to a graded structure from 0.25% to 1% per month.
Digitally signed VISHWAS certificate issued upon payment to facilitate case closure.
- Who
- Employers with pending EPF disputes
- What
- Introduction of the VISHWAS 2026 Scheme
- When
- Available for six months from 29th June 2026
- Where
- India
- Why
- To resolve pending cases related to penal damages and promote voluntary compliance
Employers
EPFO
Penal Damages Reduction
Employers
Employers benefit from reduced penal damages, making it easier to settle pending disputes.
EPFO
EPFO aims to promote compliance and reduce litigation through the scheme.
- Scheme Name
- VISHWAS 2026
- Availability Period
- Six months from 29th June 2026
- Applicable Sections
- Section 128 of the Code on Social Security, 2020 or Section 14B of the EPF Act
- Penal Damages Reduction
- Graded structure from 0.25% to 1% per month
- Application Process
- EPFO Employer Portal with e-sign or DSC
- Payment Deadline
- 15 days from the date of approval