PF New Rules: Going to give interview for new job? After the new rules of EPFO, now just asking for CTC will not work. It is also very important to ask an important question to HR.
EPFO New Rules 2026: Whenever you go for an interview for a new job, your entire focus is on only one thing, ‘Sir-ma’am, how much will be the CTC (cost-to-company) for this post?’ But after the big changes made in the new rules of EPFO, now you will have to change your habits on the interview table. If you still sign the offer letter asking only for the total CTC, then it is possible that you may get a higher salary today, but your savings for old age or retirement may be reduced to half. Let us know what new questions you have to ask HR after the new rules of EPFO.
What to ask HR now in the interview?
Till now, companies used to deduct 12% of your entire basic salary in PF and add the same amount themselves, but after the new rule, the government has given a huge relaxation to the companies. Now it is legally mandatory for any company to deduct 12% i.e. maximum of ₹ 1,800 as PF only on salary of ₹ 15,000. So, now when you sit for the last round of interview, ask this question to HR, ‘Sir, will my PF be deducted only ₹ 1,800 or will you contribute 12% on my entire basic salary?’
Why is it important to ask this question of PF?
Suppose your basic salary is ₹ 30,000. According to the old rule, ₹ 3,600 was deducted from your PF and the company used to pay the same amount. According to the new rule, the company is now legally bound to pay only ₹1,800. If the company gives only ₹ 1,800 to save its pocket, then the remaining ₹ 1,800 will be added to your in-hand salary, but the extra money received from the company will stop.
Will EPFO’s new rule give benefit or harm?
The new rule has created a strange situation for employed people. You can look at it two different ways. Due to less money being deducted in PF, the salary coming into your bank account every month will increase slightly. Those who want more cash in the beginning may like it. Currently, an excellent interest rate of around 8.25% is available on PF. If you deposit less money every month, the magic of compounding will end and the retirement fund will remain very small.
There will be no delay regarding PF now
A very wonderful decision has also been taken in the new rule in favor of the employees. Now if you change job or claim PF, pension or insurance in need of money, then the PF office will have to transfer your money within 20 days. If your claim is delayed without any solid reason, strict action will be taken against the concerned PF Commissioner. Not only this, 12% annual compensation (interest) received for the delay will be directly deducted from the salary of that officer and given to you.
Disclaimer: This article has been written for general information purposes only. The impact of EPFO rules may vary depending on the company policy, employment contract and individual situation of the employee. Before taking any job, financial or PF related decision, please confirm the information from the concerned company, HR department or official EPFO guidelines.