When you start working, you and your employer both contribute 12% of your basic salary (plus dearness allowances, if any) into your EPF account . The entire 12% of your contribution goes into your EPF account along with 3.67% (out of 12%) from your employer, while the balance 8.33% from your employer’s side is diverted to your EPS (Employee’s Pension Scheme) . It’s important to note that if your basic pay is above Rs. 6,500 per month, your employer can only contribute 8.33% of 6,500 (i.e. Rs. 541) to your EPS and the balance goes into your EPF account.
These funds are pooled together from many employees like yourself and invested by a trust. This generates an interest of 8% - 12%, which is decided by the government and the central board of trustees. The annual interest rate is available on the official EPF India website, and is currently at 8.75%.
EPF is active every time you receive your pay. If you’re changing jobs, it’s important to also update your EPF information with your new company, giving them your EPF number so that they can continue the contribution.