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Step-by-step process for Filing PF Payment (EPF contribution) — Simple Guide

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Financial Analyst

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This short guide shows employers how to file monthly PF (EPF) returns and make PF payments using the EPFO unified portal.

Before you start — what you need

  • Employer login (establishment code) for EPFO unified employer portal. EPFO
  • Employee UANs, wages for the month, and PF contribution amounts (employer + employee + admin/EDLI if applicable).
  • Bank details for online payment (internet banking/authorized bank).
  • Payroll system that can produce ECR (Electronic Challan-cum-Return) file or you can use the portal’s input screens. EPFO

Step 1 — Prepare the monthly wage & contribution details

  1. Finalise each employee’s wage, PFable salary, and the PF deduction for the month.
  2. Compute employer share, employee share, and any admin charges or EDLI amounts.
  3. Make sure UANs are correct and active.

Step 2 — Log in to EPFO Unified Employer Portal

Go to the EPFO unified employer portal and log in with your employer credentials (https://unifiedportal-emp.epfindia.gov.in). EPFO

Step 3 — Upload or enter ECR (Electronic Challan-cum-Return)

  1. Navigate to Payment → ECR/Return Upload (or the equivalent menu).
  2. Select the wage month and disbursal date.
  3. Upload the ECR file from your payroll software or enter employee-wise data using the portal form. The portal will show the summary of dues. EPFO

Step 4 — Generate the challan and get TRRN

  1. After verifying the ECR summary, prepare the challan on the portal.
  2. Finalize the challan — the portal generates a TRRN (Temporary Return Reference Number). Note the TRRN; you will use it for payment tracking. EPFO+1

Step 5 — Make the payment online (Net banking / bank gateway)

  1. From the portal, choose Pay against the TRRN.
  2. Select an authorized bank (e.g., SBI or other banks available) and you will be redirected to the bank’s payment gateway or internet banking page. Complete the payment using net-banking or other supported channels. State Bank of India+1
  3. After successful payment you will get a payment acknowledgement — save it.

Step 6 — Verify payment & submit acknowledgement on EPFO portal

  1. Return to the EPFO portal and verify the payment status for the TRRN.
  2. Once payment is confirmed, the ECR is accepted and PF contributions are posted against the establishment and employees. Keep copies of the final challan and acknowledgement for records. EPFO+1

Step 7 — Maintain records & meet timelines

  • EPF ECR + payment is normally due every month — employers commonly file by the 15th of the following month (confirm current due date from EPFO). File and pay on time to avoid interest/penalties. EPFO
  • Keep soft and hard copies of: ECR, TRRN, bank payment receipt, and portal acknowledgements.

Quick checklist

  • Employee UANs verified
  • Monthly wages & PFable salary finalised
  • ECR file prepared/uploaded or data entered on portal
  • TRRN generated and payment made via an authorised bank
  • Portal payment verified and acknowledgement saved

Common issues & tips

  • If a TRRN shows pending, check with your bank/portal for payment confirmation. EPFO
  • Use the portal’s help files for the correct ECR format; the EPFO provides a process flow and sample ECR formats. EPFO
  • Keep employee UANs and bank details updated to avoid reconciliation problems.

⚠ Disclaimer

This guide gives general steps for filing PF payments via the EPFO unified portal. EPFO procedures, portal screens, payment banks, and timelines may change. Always check the EPFO website for the latest instructions or consult your payroll/compliance advisor before filing.

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