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 was announced after various stakeholders requested more time.
A press release from the government stated: “Based on requests from stakeholders, the deadline for opting into the UPS has been extended by three months to 30 September 2025.
This new deadline applies to current employees, those who have already retired, and legally married spouses of deceased retired personnel.”
This move gives central government employees three more months to decide whether they want to switch to UPS or stay with NPS. It allows them to choose their pension plan more thoughtfully.
What is UPS?
UPS is an optional pension plan that started on 1 April 2025. It offers fixed monthly pension payments and a lump sum on retirement.
Recently, gratuity benefits have also been added for UPS members—these were earlier only available to OPS (Old Pension Scheme) beneficiaries.
Who can opt for UPS?
Central government employees who are still working as of 1 April 2025, or who retired on or before 31 March 2025, can switch from NPS to UPS.
But they must have completed at least 10 years of service and must have retired under Fundamental Rule 56(j), as long as their retirement was not due to penalty under CCS (CCA) Rules.
Also, legally married spouses of eligible retired employees who have passed away can opt for UPS.
How to choose UPS: Online Process
The government has launched an online system to help eligible employees shift to UPS. Here’s how you can do it:
Visit the e-NPS portal and go to the Unified Pension Scheme section.
Enter your PRAN number, date of birth, and captcha.
Verify using the OTP sent to your mobile or email.
Fill out the online declaration form and select UPS as your final choice.
Use your Aadhaar or VID to e-sign the form.
Once complete, download the acknowledgment slip.
If you prefer the offline method, download Form A2 and submit it to your department’s nodal office.