INCREASE IN EPF WAGE CEILING LIMIT
Two major Social Security changes are coming in 2027: Retirees get a 3.6% raise, but some workers will pay $484 more in taxes — who will be affected?
Social Security 2027 changes: Social Security checks will rise 3.6% in 2027. The average retired worker will get $2,170 a month, up $75 from $2,095. SSI recipients will receive the higher payment on December 31, 2026. The Social Security tax limit for workers will rise from $184,500 to $192,300. Employees earning at least $192,300 could pay about $484 more in tax each year.
Tea industry groups back panel's proposal for minimum sustainable price as costs outpace prices
Five tea industry associations have welcomed the government committee's recommendation for a minimum sustainable price for tea. This recommendation aims to address rising production costs that are exceeding the prices received by producers. The proposed benchmark price is linked to wage movements and consumer price indices, which will be reviewed periodically. Producers believe this pricing mechanism will help absorb wage increases and support investment in tea production.
Higher EPS pension: Pensioners request Labour Ministry to withdraw EPFO circular rejecting exempted employees' higher pension claims
The National Confederation of Pensioners' Associations has requested the Labour Ministry's urgent intervention in pending pension cases. They seek to withdraw a circular from January 2025 that affects higher EPS pension eligibility. The NCPA emphasizes eliminating discrimination between exempted and unexempted establishments regarding pension rights. They have proposed several recommendations to streamline the processing of pension applications and address delays.
Behind Bangladesh's garment boom, workers cut food, healthcare as wages fall short
Garment workers in Bangladesh are facing financial struggles due to rising costs of living. Many workers, such as Shilpi Khatun, have seen wages stagnate while expenses continue to rise. Protests erupted recently, demanding an increase in the minimum monthly wage to 30,000 taka. The government plans to revise wages but has not announced the increase yet. The ongoing economic pressures are affecting workers' daily lives and choices.
IRS raises 2027 capital gains tax limits: Could selling stocks become tax-free for more Americans as the 0% threshold jumps to $51,050?
The IRS has raised the 2027 long-term capital gains tax limits, allowing investors to earn more from stock sales before paying federal tax. The 0% tax threshold will rise to $51,050 for single filers from $49,450, while married couples filing jointly will get a $102,100 limit, up $3,200. The benefit depends on taxable income and holding periods.
Social Security tax by state in 2026: Which 8 states tax retirement benefits, where can retirees keep more of their benefits, and how much could you owe the IRS?
Social Security benefits are not tax-free for every retiree in 2026. Just over half of beneficiaries are expected to pay federal income tax on their benefits, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Eight states also tax Social Security payments, although income-based exemptions offer relief. Federal tax thresholds, retirement withdrawals and state rules will determine how much retirees actually keep.
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PHD Chamber seeks capital gains tax rationalisation, doing away with BCD on feedstock
The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry has urged the government to abolish long-term capital gains tax on equity investments, cut short-term capital gains tax to 10% and reduce securities transaction tax (STT) rates in its pre-Budget recommendations for FY28.
Budget 2027-28: PHDCCI urges govt to scrap LTCG tax on equities, cut STCG tax to 10%
PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry has made recommendations for the Union Budget 2027-28. They have proposed abolishing long-term capital gains tax and reducing short-term capital gains tax rates. The chamber has also called for relaxed loan repayment norms and higher loan limits for MSMEs. They highlighted the economic significance of MSMEs in India's GDP and employment. Improved access to credit and equity support could enhance India's global manufacturing position.
Have incorrect details in your EPF account? 5 easy steps to update name, date of birth, date of joining & more online
EPF members now have the ability to rectify discrepancies in their account records using the newly introduced online joint declaration facility. This tool enables users to update personal information, such as names and dates of birth. Once a correction request is made, it requires verification and approval from the employer before the EPFO office finalizes the process.
EPFO’s November 19 meeting to be held in New Delhi: Can EPFO increase minimum EPS pension from Rs 1,000?
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation is gearing up for its 240th Central Board of Trustees assembly, scheduled for November 19, 2026, in New Delhi. However, official confirmation from the government about these proposed changes is still pending, even as calls for enhanced pension benefits persist.
A blue brake on Trump's red agenda: Tariffs, spending and debt face a 'Democratic' reckoning in the US
Democratic control of Congress from January 2027 could constrain President Donald Trump's legislative agenda, increase scrutiny of his tariff policies and complicate fiscal decisions, Fitch's BMI said. While Trump retains executive powers over trade and immigration, prolonged funding negotiations and a potential debt-limit confrontation could raise financial market volatility.
DA hike: Diwali bonanza for UP govt employees, 63% raise announced; revised rates effective from July 1
The revised allowance will be reflected in the November salary, while the arrears for the preceding four months will be deposited separately into their provident fund accounts. The announcement comes ahead of Diwali, with the revised allowance set to benefit a large section of the state's workforce.
EPFO total contributions expected to rise by 25% in 2027-28 due to wage ceiling increase
EPFO is forecasting a major increase in its total contributions for the financial year 2027-28. The wage ceiling has been raised to ₹25,000 from ₹15,000, effective September 17. Total contributions for the current year are estimated to exceed previous budgeted amounts significantly. Additionally, the board will consider investing up to 3% in alternative investment funds.
France braces for protests on Saturday as Yellow Vests urge 'mass disobedience'
French unions, student groups, and the Yellow Vests movement are preparing for protests in Paris on Saturday. The protests aim to address the increasing cost of living while demanding improvements in wages and living conditions. Authorities are set to deploy 70,000 police officers to manage the demonstrations, which follow recent unrest. The protests will also focus on issues impacting young people and pensioners across the nation.
Social Security payroll tax cap rises to $192,300 in 2027: How much more will high earners pay from their paychecks, who will be affected, and what does it mean for your take-home pay?
Social Security taxes will take a bigger bite out of some high earners' paychecks in 2027. The taxable income limit is rising to $192,300 from $184,500, meaning another $7,800 of wages will be taxed. Workers earning above the new limit could pay up to $483.60 more next year. The increase comes as retirees are set to receive a 3.6% benefit boost.
West Bengal investment policy puts jobs first, offers up to 120% assistance to industries
West Bengal has launched a new investment promotion policy aimed at encouraging industrial growth and job creation. The policy includes substantial incentives for businesses, especially those focused on employing women and transgender workers. It offers streamlined processes for approvals and payments, enhancing efficiency for investors. Priority areas will receive higher assistance levels and a framework for regular review every three years.
EPFO reveals conditions to join EPF, EPS and EDLI
The Ministry of Labour and Employment has raised the Employees' Provident Fund wage ceiling to enhance participation. Employees earning between Rs 15,000 and Rs 25,000 will now be required to join the schemes. Those earning less than Rs 15,000 can also opt into the schemes voluntarily. This increase in ceiling may lead to higher PF contributions and, consequently, greater retirement savings.
Centre issues advisory to states to boost fodder production, livestock infra under VB-G RAM G
The Centre has issued an advisory to states and Union territories to improve fodder security and livestock infrastructure. This advisory promotes convergence under the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Act, 2025. It identifies 22 permissible works supporting fodder cultivation, livestock shelters, and veterinary health facilities. States are encouraged to increase expenditure on these works while aligning with local development priorities.
Bank of England set to raise interest rates for first time in three years as Iran war fuels inflation
The Bank of England is widely expected to raise interest rates for the first time in three years as the US-Iran conflict fuels energy prices and inflation. Policymakers remain divided over the need for further tightening and the risks to economic growth.
Has EPFO extended ECR filing deadline from October 31, 2026? What employers need to know
Employers must file the Electronic Challan-cum-Return for September 2026 by October 31, 2026. The EPFO extended the previous deadline to accommodate changes in contribution calculations due to the new wage ceiling. For the period of September 1 to 16, contributions are calculated at Rs 15,000, while from September 17 onward, they will be at Rs 25,000.
EPS-95: Private sector employees win higher pension case in Bombay High Court despite PF Trust wage ceiling limit cap; know why
EPS-95: Private sector employees wins case for higher pension as Bombay HC rules higher pension can be given even if PF trust rules capped the contributions at statutory wage ceiling limit
UK new minimum wage 2027: What will the new rates be, how much more will workers earn, and when does the new minimum wage start?
UK minimum wage 2027: The UK minimum wage will rise by 3.9% in April 2027, taking the hourly rate to £13.21 for workers aged 21 and over and £11.27 for those aged 18 to 20. Here's what to know about the new minimum wage 2027, how much more workers will earn and when the new rates take effect.
EPS-95 higher pension: Pensioners’ body appeals to President as retirees struggle to get higher pension
The National Confederation of Pensioners’ Associations has requested intervention from President Droupadi Murmu regarding higher EPS pension issues. They demand the withdrawal of a problematic EPFO circular that affects eligibility for pensions based on internal trust rules. In addition, they seek to halt unnecessary litigation and ensure uniform treatment for all retirees. The NCPA calls for waiving punitive interest related to administrative delays on pension claims.
EPS pension hike: Can EPFO increase minimum monthly pension from Rs 1,000 at its proposed November 19 meeting?
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation may discuss increasing the minimum monthly pension under the Employees' Pension Scheme. A proposal to raise the pension from Rs 1,000 is anticipated during the next Central Board of Trustees meeting.
EPS-95 pension row: Retirees challenge 2007 EPF amendment over lower pension; Karnataka HC rules against them
The Karnataka High Court ruled against retired employees challenging amendments to the Employees' Pension Scheme, 1995. The court found the government's power to amend the scheme was legitimate and did not violate vested rights. Retired employees argued that their pension entitlements were reduced by the 2007 amendments. The EPFO clarified that the amendments corrected existing anomalies and did not take away benefits.
No additional EPS contribution by government on higher wage ceiling of Rs 25,000; know what it means for your pension
EPS pension: In a recent notification, the central government confirmed that the Employees' Pension Scheme contribution will remain at the current cap of Rs 15,000, despite announcing a new wage ceiling of Rs 25,000. This choice reflects findings from earlier actuarial evaluations pointing to a potential funding shortfall. Additionally, the government has promised supplementary budgetary support to ensure current pension payouts, although sustainability concerns have been voiced in Parliament.
Salary up to Rs 25,000: EPFO reveals how you can enrol for EPF, EPS and ELDI schemes
The government recently raised the wage ceiling for the Employees' Provident Fund to Rs 25,000, allowing a broader range of workers to access the EPF, EPS, and EDLI schemes. This increase means that employees earning up to the new limit can secure essential social security benefits.
‘Increase maximum EDLI benefit to Rs 10.50 lakh’: Why this BJP MP wants government to take immediate action
In a bid for better financial security, BJP MP Ajit Gopchade has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to enhance the Employees' Deposit Linked Insurance (EDLI) coverage. Citing the recent increase in the EPF wage ceiling from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 as a pivotal reason, Gopchade proposes that the minimum cover be elevated to Rs 10.50 lakh.
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