Employers with damages for PF delays before 14 June 2024 can settle them at much lower rates under VISHWAS 2026. The six-month window closes in late December 2026.
The scheme
VISHWAS 2026 is a one-time settlement scheme for damages levied for late payment of provident fund contributions (section 14B of the EPF Act, 1952, now section 128 of the Code on Social Security, 2020). It came into force on 29 June 2026 for six months, and EPFO operationalised it by a circular dated 9 July 2026. Reports put the closing date at 28 December 2026; confirm the exact date on the employer portal.
Reduced rates
For delays that occurred before 14 June 2024, damages are recalculated at:
| Delay | VISHWAS 2026 rate |
|---|---|
| Up to 2 months | 0.25% per month |
| 2 to 4 months | 0.50% per month |
| More than 4 months | 1.00% per month |
Who can use it
Employers with a damages order under appeal, an order not yet paid, a notice without a final order, or a recorded delay where no notice has yet been issued. Cases involving fraud or misappropriation of employee contributions, damages already fully paid, and cases where interest under section 7Q has not been paid are excluded.
Conditions
Interest for the delay (section 7Q, now section 127) must be paid in full first. The employer applies on the EPFO employer portal, gives an undertaking not to pursue further litigation, and pays the recalculated amount within 15 days of approval. Amounts already paid above the revised damages are not refunded.
What to do
Check your EPFO records and pending notices for delays before June 2024. If any apply, pay the interest and apply well before the deadline.
This update reflects the position as on 13 November 2026 and is for general information only. It is not professional advice. Please refer to the official notification or circular, or speak to us, before acting on it.