If you retired from Central Government service on or before March 31, 2025, or are the legally wedded spouse of such a retiree, you may be eligible for significant financial benefits under the recently launched Unified Pension Scheme (UPS). The deadline to claim these benefits is June 30, 2025, as announced by the National Pension System (NPS) Trust.

Launched on April 1, 2025, the UPS is designed to supplement the pension income of retired Central Government employees and their spouses without impacting their existing NPS entitlements, including annuity payouts.

What Is the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)?

The Unified Pension Scheme offers financial top-ups and a one-time payout to eligible retirees. It is open to individuals who:

• Retired on or before March 31, 2025

• Completed at least 10 years of qualifying Central Government service

• Are legally wedded spouses of eligible retirees

This scheme does not require you to forfeit any existing NPS benefits. Instead, it complements your current entitlements.

Key UPS Benefits

1. One-Time Lump Sum Payment:
   For every six months of qualifying service, retirees are entitled to a payment equivalent to one-tenth of their last drawn basic pay + dearness allowance.

2. Monthly Top-Up Benefit:
   Calculated by factoring in:

   • Total admissible UPS benefit

   • Dearness relief

   • Subtraction of any annuity income already received under NPS

3. Simple Interest on Arrears:
   Aligned with Public Provident Fund (PPF) interest rates, this ensures fair arrears compensation for late disbursements.

These features aim to ensure financial stability and reward long-term service without interfering with existing retirement benefits.

How to Apply for UPS Benefits?

Eligible retirees or spouses must submit completed forms to their respective Drawing and Disbursing Officer (DDO) by June 30, 2025.

• Form B2: For original NPS subscribers (the retirees)

• Form B4 or B6: For legally wedded spouses

Forms are available for download or online submission via the official NPS website.

• Visit the NPS portal

• Complete the required form online

• Submit to your DDO digitally or in person

This streamlined process ensures maximum accessibility for all retirees, including those living in remote areas or with limited mobility.

To simplify the application process and address public queries, the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) is hosting webinars through its official platform. These sessions:

• Offer step-by-step guidance

• Explain how the UPS integrates with NPS

• Clarify eligibility and documentation requirements

Retirees or their families are encouraged to attend these sessions or view the archived videos for detailed instructions. The Unified Pension Scheme is a thoughtful step by the Central Government to enhance financial well-being during retirement. It provides an additional safety net while recognizing the decades of service rendered by Central Government employees. With the claim deadline fast approaching on June 30, eligible individuals are advised to act promptly. Don’t miss the opportunity to access what’s rightfully yours a more secure and supported post-retirement life.