ETFB mandates electronic payments and returns

Friday, 10 July 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Applies to employers with 15 or more workers

The Employees’ Trust Fund Board (ETFB) has made it mandatory for employers with 15 or more employees to submit Employees’ Trust Fund (ETF) contributions and monthly returns exclusively through electronic channels, as part of the Government’s digital transformation agenda.

The new requirement will take effect for ETF contributions relating to July 2026, which must be paid on or before 31 August 2026, the ETFB said.

The Board said the move is being implemented in accordance with the provisions of Extraordinary Gazette No. 2311/39 dated 22 December 2022, and is aligned with the Government’s Digital Economy Policy.

To support the transition, employers can make electronic payments through internet banking facilities provided by nine designated commercial banks.

Employers who do not maintain accounts with these designated banks can also settle ETF contributions through any other bank using the Direct Debit facility after registering for the service with their respective bank.

The ETFB stressed that it will no longer accept cash, cheque, or money order payments from employers with 15 or more employees once the new requirement comes into effect.

Similarly, printed half-yearly returns submitted by these employers will no longer be accepted, with all monthly returns required to be filed electronically.

While electronic submissions will not be compulsory for employers with fewer than 15 employees, the Board strongly encouraged them to adopt the digital system, citing its efficiency, security, and convenience.

The ETFB urged all employers to transition to the electronic platform to ensure the timely and accurate payment of ETF contributions and avoid surcharges arising from delayed payments.

Further information is available through the ETFB Head Office, regional offices, or its official website via www.etfb.lk.