EPS Scheme 2026: 5 key pension benefits for a family every EPF subscriber should know

The Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS) is designed not only to provide a pension after retirement but also to offer financial protection to an EPF subscriber's family members.

The scheme includes provisions for spouses, children, nominees and even dependent parents, subject to specified conditions.

Here are five important family benefits available under the EPS Scheme:

1. Widow pension

If an EPS member dies, the surviving spouse is entitled to a monthly widow's or widower's pension.

• Paid after the death of an eligible EPS member.
• Eligible if the deceased spouse worked in an EPF-covered organisation and died while in service or had contributed to EPF for at least one month.
• Continues until the spouse's death or remarriage, as applicable.
• If there is more than one eligible widow, the pension is paid first to the eldest one.

2. Child pension

Children of a deceased EPS member will also receive a monthly pension in addition to the widow's pension.

• Available for up to two eligible children at a time.
• Payable until the child turns 25 years of age.
• Children with permanent disabilities may continue to receive the pension beyond the age limit, subject to the scheme's conditions.

3. Orphan Pension

If there is no surviving spouse, eligible children can receive a monthly orphan pension.

• Available for up to two eligible children at a time.
• Payable until the child turns 25 years of age.

4. Nominee pension

A nominee pension is available in limited circumstances where the deceased member had no eligible spouse or child.

• Applicable mainly to unmarried members or members without an eligible family.
• A valid nomination is essential for the benefit to be paid.
• If the member later acquires an eligible family, the earlier nomination becomes invalid under the scheme.

5. Dependent parent pension

The EPS Scheme also provides support to dependent parents. It ensures financial support for dependent parents when no other eligible family beneficiary exists.

• Available only if there is no eligible spouse, child or valid nominee.
• Pension is paid first to the dependent father and thereafter to the dependent mother, as provided under the scheme.

Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only. Please visit the official website for the latest laws and regulations, or consult a qualified expert.