PF Return Filing in Delhi
If you run a business in Delhi and employ people, PF return filing is not optional. Every month you must file an Electronic Challan-cum-Return (ECR) on the EPFO portal and pay the dues on time. This page explains the process in plain English, covers deadlines, penalties, documents, and the latest updates that affect employers in Delhi.
What is PF return filing?
“PF return filing” means uploading your employees’ wage and contribution details on the EPFO portal through the ECR. Once you submit the ECR, the system generates a challan for payment. This is a monthly compliance for all PF-registered establishments. The statutory due date to file the ECR is the 15th of the following month (for example, September wages are due by October 15).
Latest updates (as of November 5, 2025)
Revamped ECR from wage month September 2025: EPFO has rolled out a revamped ECR with system checks to prevent errors, separate steps for return and payment, built-in interest/damages calculation, and an option to revise ECR under conditions. Format remains the same.
One-time extension for September 2025 wage month: Filing date was extended by one week to October 22, 2025. Regular rule stays the same (15th of every month).
EPF interest rate for FY 2024-25: Government approved 8.25% interest on EPF deposits for FY 2024-25.
Tip: Always rely on the official EPFO site for circulars and deadlines, and beware of fake websites.
Who must file PF returns?
Any Delhi establishment covered under the EPF & MP Act, 1952 (typically with 20 or more employees, or voluntarily covered) must file PF returns monthly, even if there’s no wage payable for a month (file a nil return).
Due date and late consequences
Due date: 15th of every month for the previous wage month.
Interest for delay (Section 7Q): 12% per annum on late payment.
Damages for delay (Section 14B): Historically, damages ranged from 5% to 25% p.a. depending on the length of delay (EPFO circular reference). EPFO’s new ECR also provides system-calculated interest and damages. Always check the latest circular before paying.
PF Return Filing Process (Delhi)
Get access:
Ensure you have your Establishment ID and credentials for the EPFO Unified Employer Portal.
Update employee master:
Keep each employee’s UAN, Aadhaar, name, and wages accurate. Use the portal’s member profile update feature when details change.
Prepare ECR file:
Use your payroll data to prepare the ECR text file in the prescribed format (no change in format under the revamped system).
Upload ECR:
Log in to the EPFO Employer Portal, upload the file, and validate. The revamped ECR has system checks to reduce common mistakes.
Generate challan:
After successful validation, generate the challan. The portal shows contributions, admin charges, and any interest/damages (if applicable).
Make payment:
Pay online through the permitted banking options against the TRRN (Transaction Reference).
Download receipts and keep records:
Save the ECR, challan, and payment receipts for audits and future queries.
Documents and data you’ll need
Establishment ID and login
Employee details (UAN, Aadhaar, name as per records, joining/exit dates)
Monthly wage and contribution sheet
Any changes in salary, new joins, exits, or transfers
Bank access for challan payment
Common mistakes to avoid
- Name/Aadhaar mismatch: Leads to ECR validation errors or credit not reflecting in member passbooks.
- Wrong wage month: Uploading under the wrong month can create reconciliation issues.
- Missing exits: Not marking exits for resigned employees leads to unnecessary contributions and show-cause notices.
- Late filing: Triggers interest and damages, and can escalate to inspections for chronic delays.
Local guidance for Delhi employers
Delhi has multiple EPFO regional offices (East, West, South, North). If you ever need offline support, you can reference the official directory and helplines. For grievances, use EPFiGMS. Addresses and contact points are publicly listed by EPFO.
Service areas we cover in Delhi: Connaught Place, Karol Bagh, Rajouri Garden, Pitampura, Rohini, Dwarka, Janakpuri, Laxmi Nagar, Preet Vihar, Mayur Vihar, South Extension, Green Park, Saket, Vasant Kunj, Okhla, Nehru Place, Jasola, and nearby NCR.
How we help (PF return filing in Delhi)
Monthly ECR preparation and filing with error-free validation
On-time challan payment support to avoid 7Q/14B costs
Employee master cleanup (UAN/Aadhaar/name deduping)
New join/exit processing and transfer tracking
Compliance calendar & reminders so you don’t miss the 15th
Notices and inspections support, replies, and follow-ups
FAQ's for PF Return Filing
1) What is the PF return due date?
The ECR for a wage month is due by the 15th of the next month.
Can I revise an ECR if I made a mistake?
The revamped system allows revision under certain conditions. Check the portal prompt/circulars for exact rules
What happens if I miss the deadline?
You’ll owe interest at 12% p.a. and damages as prescribed by EPFO. Amounts increase with the length of delay.
Is the EPF interest rate fixed each year?
Yes, EPFO recommends a rate and the government notifies it. For FY 2024-25, it’s 8.25%.
I heard the ECR format changed. Do I need a new file template?
No. EPFO has clarified that the format is unchanged under the revamped ECR.
Ready to file your PF Return in Delhi?
We handle end-to-end PF return filing so you never miss a deadline. Get a quick checklist and a same-day compliance review for your current month.
