What we do
Our work in this practice group is structured around the records, deadlines, and decisions involved:
- Statutory compliance under the Employees’ Provident Funds Act, 1952 protecting management from prosecution.
- Attractive social security and retirement savings scheme boosting employee retention and morale.
- Tax deduction benefits for employer contributions under Section 36(1)(va) of the Income Tax Act.
- Mandatory prerequisite for corporate tenders, government empanelment, and multinational vendor audits.
- Access to the EPFO Unified Portal for automated monthly Electronic Challan cum Return (ECR) filings.
- Comprehensive life insurance cover for employees under the EDLI (Employees’ Deposit Linked Insurance) Scheme.
How the engagement works
Under Section 1(3) of the Employees’ Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952, coverage is mandatory for every establishment employing 20 or more persons from the date on which the employment threshold is reached. Failure to register or delay in compliance constitutes a criminal offense punishable under Section 14 with imprisonment, heavy fines, and statutory damages under Section 14B.
Scenario 1: A growing startup, IT enterprise, or commercial company whose total headcount touches or exceeds 20 employees.
Scenario 2: An employer with fewer than 20 employees wishing to obtain voluntary PF coverage to provide retirement benefits and attract talent.
Scenario 3: A manpower supply agency, security provider, or facility management contractor bidding for corporate facility contracts.
Scenario 4: A newly incorporated corporate entity setting up operations and completing statutory labour portal formalities.
Scenario 5: An enterprise undergoing an EPFO inspector verification or receiving an inquiry notice under Section 7A.
Applicability & Employee Wage Review
We analyze your total headcount, wage breakdown (Basic + DA components), and determine mandatory vs. voluntary coverage criteria.
DSC Setup & Portal Registration
We register the authorized signatory’s Class III Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) on the EPFO Unified Portal.
Shram Suvidha Online Application
We draft and file the digital establishment registration application along with mandatory organizational proofs, PAN, and bank documents.
General questions
01When is PF registration mandatory for a business in India?
PF registration is statutorily mandatory as soon as an establishment employs 20 or more people (including permanent, temporary, and contract workers).
02Can a company register for PF voluntarily with fewer than 20 employees?
Yes. An establishment with fewer than 20 employees can opt for voluntary coverage under Section 1(4) of the Act with the consent of the employer and majority of employees.
03What is the statutory contribution rate for PF?
The employee contributes 12% of Basic Wages + Dearness Allowance (capped statutory wage ₹15,000, though voluntary higher contributions are permitted). The employer matches 12% (divided into 8.33% to EPS, 3.67% to EPF), plus EDLI (0.50%) and administrative charges (0.50%).
04What is a UAN and why is it important?
The Universal Account Number (UAN) is a 12-digit permanent account number assigned to each employee by the EPFO. It remains portable across employers throughout the employee’s working life.