Pension Under Unified Pension Scheme: Starting April 1, 2025, the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) has become a game-changer for lakhs of central government employees and retirees. The scheme promises a guaranteed minimum pension of ₹10,000 per month, providing long-term financial stability. Whether you’re currently working, about to join, or have already retired under the National Pension System (NPS), this guide will walk you through how to claim your pension under UPS step by step.
The good news? The process is simple and can be done online or offline. In this article, we’ll break it down for you in the simplest possible way, so even a 10-year-old could understand, while still offering the depth professionals need.
Pension Under Unified Pension Scheme
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) |
| Effective From | April 1, 2025 |
| Minimum Assured Pension | ₹10,000 per month |
| Who Can Apply? | Existing central government employees, new recruits, retirees under NPS, and legally wedded spouses of deceased subscribers |
| Application Timeline | Within 3 months (existing/retirees); 30 days (new recruits) |
| Where to Apply | Protean CRA Website |
| Key Forms | A1, A2, B2, B6 depending on category |
The Unified Pension Scheme is a golden opportunity to secure a stable retirement income. If you’re eligible, claiming your ₹10,000 monthly pension is just a matter of downloading a form, filling it out correctly, and submitting it on time. This scheme brings much-needed peace of mind to those who have served the nation. But don’t wait until the last minute – get started today!
What is the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)?
The Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) is an initiative by the Central Government of India to provide a defined benefit pension to eligible central government employees and retirees. The scheme is meant to offer better financial predictability than the market-linked NPS.
Unlike the National Pension System (NPS), where retirement income depends on market returns, UPS ensures that if you meet the service and contribution conditions, you’ll receive a guaranteed ₹10,000 per month as pension after retirement.
Who Can Benefit from UPS?
UPS is applicable to four broad categories:
- Existing Central Government Employees (as of April 1, 2025): If you were already covered under NPS, you can opt-in.
- New Recruits joining central services on or after April 1, 2025.
- Retirees under NPS who superannuated before April 1, 2025, with at least 10 years of qualifying service.
- Legally Wedded Spouses of eligible deceased subscribers who had not exercised the option.
How to Claim ₹10,000 Pension Under Unified Pension Scheme: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Download the Right Form
Visit the official Protean CRA UPS page and download the relevant form based on your category:
- Form A1: For new recruits (joining on/after April 1, 2025)
- Form A2: For existing employees (in service as of April 1, 2025)
- Form B2: For retired employees (retired before April 1, 2025)
- Form B6: For legally wedded spouses of deceased subscribers
Step 2: Fill Out the Form
- Use block letters and write clearly.
- Make sure all personal and service details match your employment records.
- Attach the required documents (Aadhaar, PAN, Service Certificate, Retirement Order, etc.)
Step 3: Submit the Form
You can submit the completed form in two ways:
Online Submission
- Scan all documents and fill out the form digitally.
- Upload on the Protean CRA Portal.
Offline Submission
- Submit the physical form along with photocopies of supporting documents to your Head of Office or Drawing and Disbursing Officer (DDO).
Step 4: Respect the Deadline
- Existing employees and retirees (as of March 31, 2025): Must opt-in within 3 months from April 1, 2025 (i.e., by June 30, 2025).
- New recruits: Must exercise the option within 30 days of joining.
Failure to apply in time means you’ll automatically continue under NPS.
Important Notes You Shouldn’t Miss
Irrevocable Choice
Once you choose UPS, you cannot switch back to NPS. So, consider your retirement plans, family needs, and future financial goals before opting in.
No Guaranteed Pension Without Minimum Service
To be eligible for the ₹10,000 monthly pension, you must:
- Complete at least 10 years of qualifying service.
- Not withdraw from your NPS account prematurely.
- Regularly contribute as required during your service tenure.
Watch for Notifications
The government may extend deadlines or modify eligibility under special conditions. Keep checking the Ministry of Finance UPS FAQs for updates.
Why This Scheme Matters: A Real-World Perspective
Let’s say you are a central government employee retiring in 2035. Under NPS, your pension could vary significantly depending on how your investments perform.
But if you opt for UPS, and you’ve completed 10 years of service without breaks or early withdrawals, you’re assured ₹10,000 every month. That’s ₹120,000 per year, guaranteed. In today’s economic scenario, that kind of financial security in old age is invaluable.
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FAQs on Pension Under Unified Pension Scheme
1. Can I apply for UPS after retiring?
Yes, retired employees covered under NPS (before April 1, 2025) can apply using Form B2, provided they meet eligibility conditions.
2. What happens if I don’t opt-in within the deadline?
You will continue under the existing National Pension System (NPS) by default.
3. Is there an online tracking system for my application?
Yes, the Protean CRA portal allows you to track your application status online.
4. Can my spouse claim UPS if I pass away before opting?
Yes, your legally wedded spouse can apply using Form B6.
5. What documents are required?
Aadhaar, PAN, Service Record, NPS details, and any retirement order or death certificate (as applicable).
