The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced a new Electronic Challan-cum-Return (ECR) system starting from the wage month of September 2025. This new system is designed to make the return filing process easier and smoother for employers through the EPFO portal.

Many employers requested more time to understand and adapt to the new system, as they faced some difficulties while filing returns. Keeping this in mind, EPFO has now extended the last date for filing ECR for September wages to 22nd October 2025.

To help employers easily shift to the new ECR system, EPFO has also launched awareness programs across the country. These programs include meetings and workshops with employer associations and industry groups.

At the national level, EPFO has met with organisations such as FICCI, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Employer Federation of India. They discussed the benefits of the new system, including improved data accuracy, step-by-step return validation, and easier compliance.

Zonal and regional offices of EPFO are also holding training sessions and workshops for employers to provide on-ground support. The aim is to help establishments file their returns on time and without any errors.

EPFO continues to focus on providing a smooth digital experience for employers while improving transparency and compliance in provident fund management.