What can I do if my employer deducted PF but did not deposit it?

My salary slips show PF deductions every month but the amount is not reflecting in my EPFO account. What should I do? I have been reading conflicting things online and I would like to understand what Indian law actually says about this, which Act and Section applies, what the realistic timelines and costs are, and what I should be doing right now to protect my position. If the matter can be resolved without litigation I would prefer that route, but I want to know what my rights are before I agree to anything or sign any document.

What can I do if my employer deducted PF but did not deposit it? is governed in India primarily by Employees' Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 1952, Section 6, EPF Act 1952, Section 14 and Code on Social Security 2020. The short answer is set out below, followed by the practical steps most people in this situation need to take. Read it alongside the specific provisions named, because the exact relief available to you turns on the facts you can prove on paper.

Section 6 obligates the employer to deposit both the employee's and employer's contribution with EPFO by the 15th of the following month, and deducting from salary without depositing is a serious breach.

Non-payment or delayed payment of PF contributions is a criminal offence under Section 14, punishable with imprisonment up to 3 years, and the employer also becomes liable for damages under Section 14B and interest under Section 7Q.

You can check your PF passbook on the EPFO portal or UMANG app to confirm whether contributions are actually being credited, and mismatch is strong evidence of default.

A complaint can be filed with the Regional Provident Fund Commissioner, who has powers to conduct inquiry under Section 7A and recover dues as arrears of land revenue.

Employees can also lodge a grievance on the EPFiGMS portal and simultaneously report the matter to the local police for criminal breach of trust if deduction from wages without remittance is established.

What to do next: 1) Download your PF passbook and salary slips to show the deduction versus non-credit discrepancy; 2) File a written complaint with the Regional PF Commissioner's office having jurisdiction over your employer; 3) Lodge a grievance on the EPFiGMS portal with supporting documents; 4) Consult a labour lawyer if the employer does not remedy the default within a reasonable time.

If the other side has already issued a notice, filed a case or set a deadline, treat the matter as time-sensitive — most remedies under Employees' Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 1952, Section 6 carry limitation periods, and a delay you cannot explain weakens an otherwise strong case. You can post the details on the MyVakeel forum for a practising advocate to review, or book a paid consultation with a Bar Council verified lawyer in this practice area.

Disclaimer: This information is for general awareness and does not constitute legal advice. Statutes and their interpretation change, and outcomes depend on the facts of your case. Please consult a qualified advocate before acting on it.