ESI and PF Registration: A Guide for Employers

As your team grows, two social security registrations become mandatory: Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) and Employees’ State Insurance (ESI). Both protect employees and carry monthly compliance obligations for employers.

EPF at a glance

• Applies to establishments employing 20 or more persons (voluntary coverage is possible below that).
• Contributions – both employer and employee contribute a percentage of basic wages and dearness allowance; part of the employer’s share goes to the pension scheme.
• Benefits – retirement savings, pension and insurance for employees.
• Regulator – Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO).

ESI at a glance

• Applies to establishments with 10 or more employees in notified areas, for employees earning up to the notified wage ceiling.
• Contributions – small percentages of wages from both employer and employee.
• Benefits – medical care, sickness, maternity, disability and dependant benefits.
• Regulator – Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC).

Registration process

1. Register the establishment on the EPFO and ESIC portals (integrated through the Shram Suvidha portal).
2. Provide business registration documents, PAN, address proof, bank details and employee details.
3. Receive the establishment code numbers.
4. Register employees and generate their UAN (EPF) and IP numbers (ESI).

Monthly compliance

• Deposit EPF contributions and file the electronic challan-cum-return by the 15th of the next month.
• Deposit ESI contributions by the 15th of the next month.
• Keep attendance, wage and contribution records.

Penalties

Late payment attracts interest and damages, and non-compliance can lead to prosecution in serious cases. Timely filing also keeps employees’ benefits uninterrupted.

Labour codes

India’s new labour codes consolidate these laws. As they are implemented, some definitions and thresholds may change, so check the current rules before registering.

Need help setting up payroll compliance? Contact us or see our TDS on salary and professional tax services.

Why Choose Vaidam Consultancy?

Our team of chartered accountants, company secretaries and legal professionals handles the paperwork so you can focus on growing your business.

🌐 100% Online Process

Share documents from anywhere — no office visits needed.

📋 Deadline Tracking

We remind you before every due date, so you never pay avoidable late fees.

💬 Expert Guidance

Speak directly with a professional for advice that fits your situation.

🚀 Quick Turnaround

Clear timelines and regular status updates from start to finish.

Call or WhatsApp us at +91 78369 69141 or email vaidamconsultancyllp@gmail.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can a business with fewer than 20 employees register for EPF?

Yes, voluntary registration is possible with the consent of the employer and employees.

Q2. What is the due date for EPF and ESI payments?

Generally the 15th of the following month.

Q3. Do contract workers count for EPF and ESI?

Yes. Contract workers engaged through contractors are generally covered, and the principal employer must ensure compliance.

Q4. Is ESI required in every area?

ESI applies in areas notified by ESIC, which now covers most of the country.