EPFO urges eligible establishments to settle long-pending EPF damages disputes at substantially reduced rates under VISHWAS, 2026

The Government of India has launched VISHWAS, 2026, a one-time settlement scheme operative until 28 December 2026, enabling employers to resolve long-pending Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) damages disputes at reduced penalty rates. Under the scheme, penalties for late deposit are reduced based on the duration of delay: 0.25% per month for delays up to two months, 0.50% per month for delays between two and four months, and 1% per month for delays beyond four months. Eligible cases include those relating to delayed PF contributions prior to 14 June 2024 across pending court/tribunal proceedings, pending recoveries, proposed notices, and recorded delays without notices. The application process is fully online via the EPFO Employer Portal, requiring prior clearance of outstanding interest and digital authentication. Several High Courts have endorsed and directed establishments to use the scheme.