UPS Deadline Extended: There’s some big news for central government employees. The deadline for opting for the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) has been extended to November 30, 2025.
The Finance Ministry made this decision following requests from employees and other stakeholders who requested more time. Previously, this deadline was September 30, and before that, June 30. Now, employees have two additional months to opt into the scheme.
Who can choose this scheme?
The UPS is effective from April 1, 2025. This scheme is open to all central government employees who were enrolled in the National Pension System (NPS) as of that date. Retired employees and spouses of deceased employees who are legally married can also opt for this scheme. However, there are certain conditions. An employee who has been dismissed, compulsorily retired as a punishment, or removed from service is ineligible. Anyone facing a disciplinary inquiry or contemplating such action will also be ineligible.
Finance Ministry gave this information
Employees who join government service after April 1, 2025, will have to choose between NPS or UPS within 30 days of joining.UPSTo apply, employees must fill out Form A2, available on the Protean CRA portal. This form can be submitted online or submitted along with the required documents to the Drawing and Disbursing Officer (DDO) or Head of Office. The same process applies to retired employees who have served for at least ten years and spouses of deceased employees.
The Finance Ministry has directed the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) to update its systems and issue necessary instructions. This decision has been approved by the Finance Minister. Recently, some changes were made to the UPS, such as rules related to switching from other schemes, benefits upon resignation or compulsory retirement, and tax exemptions. These changes had led to employees requesting more time.
Where and how to submit the form?
This is a big opportunity for the employees, because in UPSPension guaranteeThe NPS is completely market-dependent. However, the decision must be made carefully, as once you choose UPS, you cannot switch back to NPS. Employees are advised to check their details on the portal and contact their office. This news is a relief for millions of employees who are considering changing their pension scheme.
Newly joining employees can submit Form A1 to their nodal office, the head of their training institute, or the head of their current institute. The institute will then forward it to the Cadre Controlling Authority or Drawing and Disbursing Officer (DDO). A copy of the form can be downloaded from the PFRDA website for easy completion. If you also want to enroll in this scheme, please complete the form before November 30th. This decision will further simplify employees’ retirement planning.
