Pension Payment Order (PPO): Meaning, Importance, and How to Get It

The Government of India launched a monthly pension scheme for employees in 1995. This scheme is known as the Employee Pension Scheme (EPS), which is part of the EPF (Employee Provident Fund) scheme. 

Under EPS scheme, employees receive monthly financial assistance and security to lead a stress-free retirement life. If you are an EPF account holder, you must know about PPO or Pension Payment Orders. This article will help you find the meaning of PPO, how to check pension payment order status, and much more. 

What is Pension Payment Order (PPO) Number?

PPO or Pension Payment Order is issued to every pensioner covered under the EPF scheme. It is a distinct 12-digit identification number which is assigned to facilitate the tracking of all communications and transactions related to the Employee Pension Scheme 

This 12-digit number is classified as follows:

1. The initial 5-digit number stands for PPO issuing authority’s code number.
2. The sixth and seventh digit denotes the year of issuing the PPO number.
3. The eight, ninth, tenth, and eleventh number stands for the sequential number of the PPO.
4. Finally, the twelfth or last digit denotes a digital check digit.

Why is PPO Number Important?

A pension Payment Order is essential for all employees. Here is why:

1. With a PPO number, you can receive and keep track of your pension.
2. When filing grievances with Employee Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), the PPO number can come in handy.
3. If your previous bank account is closed and you need to receive a pension in a new bank account, the PPO number is mandatory.
4. You also need to provide the PPO number while submitting the annual life certificate, which is essential to keep your pension running.
5. A wide range of PPO online services can be accessed from the PPO number, such as pension details, pension payment status, download pension payment slips and lodge grievances related to pension.

How to Get PPO Number for EPF Pension?

The steps to get the PPO number for EPS pension are provided below.

Through EPFO Portal

1. Visit the official website of EPFO.
2. Click the ‘For Employees’ option under the ‘Services’ tab.
3. Click the ‘Pensioner’s Portal’ option under the ‘Services’ tab. Click on that.
4. It will redirect you to the ‘Welcome to Pensioners’ Portal’ page. 
5. Click on 'Know your PPO number' on the right side of this page.
6. Enter your PF number or bank account number.

Upon entering proper information, your PPO number, Member ID, pension type, etc., will be displayed. 

By Visiting EPF Office

You can also visit the closest EPFO office and ask for your PPO number. You can also call the EPFO toll-free number and find out your PPO - 14470.

How to Check Pension Payment Order Status?

You can check your PPO (Pension Payment Order) status by following easy steps:

1. Visit the official Central Pension Accounting Office website.
2. Click on the ‘Pensioner’ option.
3. Navigate to the ‘PPO Status’ option.
4. You will find a box beside ‘Enter 12 Digit PPO NO.’ Enter your PPO number in that box.
5. Click on the ‘Submit’ option.

How to Download Pension Payment Order Online?

The Government of India has initiated the DigiLocker facility to provide storage space for accessing or uploading essential documents whenever required. You can download your PPO online by logging into the DigiLocker website using your Aadhaar number. 

Here's a detailed guide on downloading PPO:

1.  Visit the official DigiLocker website.
2.  Click 'Sign In' and log in to your account.
3. Enter your Aadhaar number, mobile number, or username.
4. You will receive an OTP on your registered mobile number.
5. Enter the OTP and the previously generated security pin.
6. Click on ‘Submit’. You will be logged in to your account.
7.  Next, click on ‘Issued Documents’. You will find a new webpage appearing on your screen.
8. Click on ‘Get more issued documents.’
9. Navigate to the ‘Central Government’ tab.
10. Click on ‘Employees Provident Fund Organisation’.
11. Click on UAN on the new webpage that appears on your screen. Enter your UAN once prompted. 
12. Next, click on ‘Get Document’. 
13. The fetched data will appear and be saved under ‘Saved Documents’. You can access and download this document.

What is the difference between PPO and UAN (Universal Account Number)

The UAN (Universal Account Number) is a unique 12-digit identification number given to salaried employees who contribute to the Employee Provident Fund (EPF). This is essential in tracking EPF contributions and transactions and is also utilised while transferring an EPF account between employers after a job change. 

Whereas, the PPO is a unique identification number which is issued to pensioners as per the Employee Pension Scheme. This is used to identify pension beneficiaries and helps tracking the management of pension payments. 

Conclusion

Now you know what PPO is and how to download the PPO order. You must know that the EPS is a contribution-based scheme under EPF. Thus, both the employer and employee should contribute to Employee Pension Scheme. You need to contribute 12% of your basic salary and DA each month to your EPF account. In addition, the employer also contributes the same amount. Thus, 24% of your salary is contributed to the EPF account. 8.67% of this entire amount is contributed to the EPS scheme.