Unified Pension Scheme: The Finance Ministry has extended the deadline to choose between the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) and the National Pension System (NPS) to 30 September 2025.
Earlier, the last date was 30 June 2025. This decision was made after several stakeholders requested more time.
Who benefits from this decision?
This decision gives central government employees an extra three months to decide whether they want to stay in NPS or switch to UPS. T
his added time will help them make an informed choice about their pension scheme.
About UPS
UPS is an optional pension scheme, launched from 1 April 2025, that promises fixed monthly pension payments and a lump sum at retirement.
Recently, gratuity benefits have also been added to UPS. Earlier, these benefits were available only under the Old Pension Scheme (OPS).
In the government’s press release, it was said, “Considering the requests received from stakeholders, the last date to choose the UPS option has been extended by three months to 30 September 2025.”
This extended deadline is applicable for current employees, pre-retired employees, and legally married spouses of deceased retired personnel.
Who can choose UPS?
The following people are eligible to switch from NPS to UPS:
Central government employees who are still in service as of 1 April 2025
Those who retired on or before 31 March 2025, having completed at least 10 years of service
Retirement must be under Fundamental Rules 56(j), and not as a penalty under CCS (CCA) Rules
Legally married spouses of such eligible deceased retired employees can also choose UPS
How to choose UPS? Follow this online process
The government has launched an online facility to opt for UPS. Eligible employees can follow these steps:
Open the e-NPS portal and go to the Unified Pension Scheme section
Enter your PRAN number, date of birth, and the captcha code
Verify using the OTP sent to your mobile or email
Fill the online declaration form, confirming UPS as your final choice
E-sign the form using Aadhaar or VID
After completing the process, download the Acknowledgment.
