The EPFO has ordered all employers covered by the EPF & MP Act, 1952 to publicly display an extract of Form 5A (the employer’s “Return of Ownership”). This must be shown physically at the workplace and uploaded on the company website/mobile app.
What is the Deadline?
Within 15 days from circular date (7 Oct 2025), the deadline works out to be 22 Oct 2025.
What is Form 5A?
Official name of Form 5A is “Return of Ownership”. This form is auto‑generated when a company registers on the EPFO Employer Portal. Form 5A confirms the employer’s PF registration and key establishment details, including:
- registered name of the establishment
- ownership/management details (owners, directors, responsible person for EPF compliance)
- branch count and primary branch address
- EPF coverage date
- concerned EPFO regional office
- establishment EPF Code
What you must display:
The extract you display (both physical and digital) must show:
- EPF Code
- Registered name of the establishment
- Date of coverage under EPF
- Number of branches & primary branch address
- Concerned EPFO regional office
Where to display:
- Physical: prominent spot at the main entrance, reception or employee notice board (accessible to employees and inspectors).
- Digital: upload the same extract PDF to the official company website and mobile app (if any).
Why this matters:
- Empowers employees to confirm PF registration
- Makes field inspections faster and easier for EPFO/labour officers
- Promotes employer accountability and reduces disputes
Risks of non-compliance:
- Action under EPF & MP Act, 1952
- Inspection notices or show-cause communications
- Reputational risk and possible penalties/prosecution
How to get Form 5A (quick steps):
- Go to EPFO Employer Portal.
- Log in with Establishment ID & password.
- Menu: Establishment → Form 5A / Ownership Details.
- Click View / Print Form 5A → Verify details.
- Click Download / Print PDF.
- Print for physical display and upload the PDF to your website/app.
- Take a photo of the displayed board and keep that plus the uploaded PDF in your compliance folder.
Practical checklist for HR / Compliance teams:
- Download and verify Form 5A details (EPF Code, addresses, responsible person).
- Correct any errors on the portal if required.
- Print and display the extract in a visible place.
- Upload the PDF to the company website and app.
- Take and archive a photo of the displayed board + screenshot of upload.
- Add this to monthly compliance audits; update after any ownership/branch change.
Who must comply All employers registered under the EPF Scheme (all sectors and sizes). The employer or authorized signatory is responsible for accuracy and timely updates.
EPFO Circular dated 07/10/2025: Prominent Display of Form 5A (Return of Ownership) by Employers