The Finance Ministry has extended the last date to choose between the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) and the National Pension System (NPS) to 30 September 2025.
Earlier, the deadline was 30 June 2025. This extension came after several stakeholders asked for more time.
According to a government press release: “Based on the requests received from stakeholders, the deadline for choosing UPS has been extended by three months to 30 September 2025.”
This new deadline applies to current central government employees, those who have already retired, and the legally married spouses of retired employees who have passed away.
This extension gives central government employees an extra three months to decide whether they want to move to UPS or stay in NPS. It helps them make a more informed choice about their pension scheme.
What is UPS?
UPS is an optional pension scheme that began on 1 April 2025. It offers a fixed monthly pension and a lump sum at retirement.
Recently, gratuity benefits were also added for UPS members. Earlier, these benefits were only available to people under the Old Pension Scheme (OPS).
Who can choose UPS?
Central government employees who are still working as of 1 April 2025, or who retired on or before 31 March 2025, are allowed to switch from NPS to UPS.
However, they must have completed at least 10 years of service and must have retired under Fundamental Rule 56(j), provided their retirement was not due to any penalty under the CCS (CCA) Rules.
Legally married spouses of eligible retired employees who have passed away can also choose UPS.
How to choose UPS: Online Process
The government has set up an online process to make it easier for eligible employees to switch to UPS. Here are the steps:
Go to the e-NPS portal and select the Unified Pension Scheme section.
Enter your PRAN number, date of birth, and the captcha code.
Use the OTP sent to your mobile or email to verify your identity.
Fill out the online declaration form and select UPS as your final option.
Use your Aadhaar or Virtual ID (VID) to e-sign the form.
Once done, download the acknowledgment slip for your records.
If you prefer the offline process, you can download Form A2 and submit it to your department’s nodal office.
