6-month extension given to make EPF contributions

The Labour Department has given a six-month extension to employers to make EPF contributions in response to appeals by the private sector. Commissioner General of Labour B.K. Prabath Chandrakeerthi said most employers had requested the department to grant them relief in respect of not being able to make the contributions to the Employees’ Provident Fund on behalf of their employees on the due date because of the situation that has emerged in the country with the rise in COVID-19 cases since April.

Considering the request, it has been decided to grant a relief period of six months onward from the due date related to the months of March, April and May, during which employers were unable to pay contributions.

“The relief period will be granted to pay contributions without a surcharge being imposed relevant to the months of March, April and May until 31 October, 30 November and 31 December this year respectively,” he said.

However he stressed that this extension was only if companies had a special valid reason to delay contribution and they must request it in writing for approval from the Labour Department.