EPFO to Cut PF Interest Rate to 8-8.20% for FY26; Wage Ceiling Hike Also on Cards

• EPFO is considering reducing the PF interest rate for FY2025-26 to 8-8.20% from the current 8.25%.
• A crucial decision on the interest rate will be made at the Central Board of Trustees meeting in early March.
• The government might maintain the current 8.25% rate due to upcoming state elections in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
• Discussions are also underway to increase the PF wage ceiling from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000, a first since 2014.
• Raising the wage ceiling would increase monthly PF contributions, enhance long-term savings, and expand social security coverage.