PFRDA Update: New CRA Charges for NPS & APY Subscribers from October 1

Balasahana Suresh
The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has announced a major change affecting subscribers of NPS, Atal Pension Yojana (APY), and other related schemes. From October 1, 2025, new Central Recordkeeping Agency (CRA) charges will be applied. Here’s what you need to know:

🏦 1. What Are CRA Charges?

CRA charges are fees collected for managing your NPS or APY accounts. This includes maintaining subscriber records, processing contributions, and facilitating withdrawals. These charges are deducted automatically from your account.

📅 2. Effective Date

The new CRA charges will come into effect from October 1, 2025. Subscribers should be aware that these fees will reflect in their monthly or annual statements starting that month.

💰 3. How the Charges Are Calculated

  • NPS subscribers: Charges are typically a fixed percentage of your contribution or a flat annual fee, depending on the plan and tier (Tier-I or Tier-II).
  • APY subscribers: Fees are lower and mostly fixed, ensuring minimal impact on monthly contributions.
⚖️ 4. Why the Charg
es Changed

The update is intended to standardize CRA fees and improve the efficiency of recordkeeping services. PFRDA aims to make the system more transparent and sustainable for all subscribers.

🧾 5. How It Affects Your Returns

Although CRA charges slightly reduce your net returns, they are essential for account maintenance, compliance, and timely processing of contributions and withdrawals. It’s a small trade-off for a secure pension system.

📲 6. Check Your Updated Account Statement

Subscribers should regularly log in to the CRA portal or their PRAN account to verify charges. This ensures transparency and helps you plan contributions effectively.

💡 7. Planning Tips for Subscribers

  • Factor in CRA charges when deciding monthly contribution amounts.
  • For APY subscribers, continue with consistent contributions to maximize pension benefits despite the nominal fees.
  • Review NPS Tier-II allocations periodically to manage returns after charges.


Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.


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