The EPFO office in Ranchi has rolled out a financial support plan that could put up to ₹15,000 extra in the hands of first-time employees.
First-Time Jobholders to Receive Bonus Pay
Starting August 1, 2025, anyone getting their first job in a company registered with the Ranchi EPFO will receive an additional one month’s salary, with a maximum limit of ₹15,000.
This announcement was made by Ajitesh Kumar, Regional Provident Fund Commissioner, during a press meet at the EPFO Ranchi office in Hinoo.
This bonus is part of the newly launched Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme, introduced to promote fresh employment opportunities in the state.
Who Will Get the Benefit?
Not everyone qualifies—but here’s who does:
- You must be joining your first job between August 1, 2025 and July 31, 2027
- You must be employed by a company registered under Ranchi EPFO
- You should become a new EPFO member through this job
- Applicable in 32,000 small and large companies across 19 districts of Jharkhand
Special Note: This is strictly for first-time EPFO members, so if you’ve already worked in a registered company before this date, you may not be eligible.
How the Payment Will Work (In Two Installments)
The ₹15,000 benefit isn’t paid all at once. Here’s how it will reach you:
- First Installment – After completing 6 months of continuous service
- Second Installment – After completing 12 months on the job
Both payments will be directly deposited into your bank account by the central government, without needing to apply or fill out separate forms.
Employers Also Get Incentives
This scheme doesn’t just benefit the employees. Employers are also being encouraged to participate in large numbers.
- Small businesses must hire at least 2 new employees
- Larger companies must hire at least 5 additional employees
- For each new employee hired, the employer receives ₹3,000 as an incentive
This dual incentive approach is aimed at boosting employment creation across the manufacturing sector, especially in underdeveloped areas.
Scheme Validity & Sector-Wise Timeline
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | August 1, 2025 |
| Last Date to Join as Beneficiary | July 31, 2027 |
| Max Employee Bonus | ₹15,000 (in 2 parts) |
| Employer Incentive | ₹3,000 per new hire |
| Special Focus Sector | Manufacturing (till July 31, 2029) |
| Covered Districts | 19 across Jharkhand |
Is This Scheme for You?
You should seriously consider this scheme if:
- You’re graduating this year or seeking your very first job
- You’ve never worked in a registered company under EPFO
- You’re open to joining companies in the manufacturing, service, or private sector in Jharkhand
Even if you earn a basic salary, this ₹15,000 boost could help you save or stabilize your early career.
Mistakes That May Disqualify You
Here are common errors that can cost you the benefit:
- Applying through a non-EPFO registered employer
- Not completing 6 or 12 months on the job
- Giving bank details not linked to your Aadhaar
- Having an old EPFO membership before this job
Pro tip: Ask your HR if your company is registered under Ranchi EPFO and clarify your EPFO member status before joining.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do I need to apply for the bonus myself?
No. Once you’re onboarded and your EPFO account is activated by the employer, the process happens automatically.
Q: Is this a one-time scheme?
Yes, the benefit is available only for first-time EPFO members joining between Aug 1, 2025 to July 31, 2027.
Q: Will part-time or contractual employees be included?
Only registered employees with full EPFO enrollment are eligible. Part-time workers not enrolled under EPFO are excluded.
Q: When will I get the first payment?
The first installment comes after 6 months of continuous service, the second after 12 months.