How to Check NPS Balance

The National Pension System (NPS) is a government-backed retirement savings scheme in India designed to help individuals build a secure financial future after retirement. Managed by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), NPS offers tax benefits under Section 80C and additional deductions under Section 80CCD(1B), making it one of the most attractive long-term investment options for salaried employees, self-employed professionals, and even non-resident Indians (NRIs) under certain conditions.

One of the most critical responsibilities of any NPS subscriber is to regularly monitor their account balance. Knowing your NPS balance allows you to track your investment growth, assess whether you're on track to meet your retirement goals, and make timely contributions to maximize tax advantages. Whether you’re a new subscriber or have been contributing for years, checking your NPS balance is a simple yet essential habit that ensures financial transparency and control.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough on how to check your NPS balance using multiple official and reliable channels. We’ll cover the process for both Tier I and Tier II accounts, explain best practices for ongoing account management, recommend trusted tools and resources, illustrate real-world scenarios, and answer frequently asked questions. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have full confidence in managing your NPS account and making informed decisions about your retirement savings.

Step-by-Step Guide

Checking your NPS balance is straightforward, but the method you choose depends on your preferred platform—online portal, mobile app, or physical statement. Below are the most reliable and widely used methods, each explained in detail with clear instructions.

Method 1: Check NPS Balance via the NPS Trust Website

The official NPS Trust portal, managed by PFRDA, is the most authoritative source for account information. Follow these steps to access your balance:

1. Open your web browser and navigate to https://www.nps.org.in.
2. On the homepage, locate and click on the “Login to NPS” button, typically found in the top-right corner.
3. You will be redirected to the login page. Select “Subscriber Login” if you are an individual subscriber.
4. Enter your PRAN (Permanent Retirement Account Number) and password. If you’ve forgotten your password, click “Forgot Password” and follow the OTP-based recovery process using your registered mobile number or email.
5. After successful login, you’ll land on your dashboard. Look for the “View Account Details” or “Account Statement” option.
6. Click on “Account Statement” to view your current balance, contribution history, fund performance, and asset allocation across different schemes (E, C, G, and A).
7. You can download a PDF version of your statement for record-keeping or tax filing purposes.

Ensure you are using a secure connection and avoid accessing your account from public or shared devices. The NPS Trust portal updates balances daily, so your information is typically current to the previous business day.

Method 2: Use the eNPS Mobile App

The eNPS mobile application, developed by PFRDA, offers a convenient way to check your balance on the go. Available on both Android and iOS platforms, the app provides real-time updates and push notifications for transactions.

1. Open the Google Play Store (for Android) or Apple App Store (for iOS).
2. Search for “eNPS” and download the official app published by “PFRDA – Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority.”
3. Launch the app and tap “Login.”
4. Enter your PRAN and password. If you’re a first-time user, you may need to register using your PRAN and registered mobile number.
5. After authentication, the app’s home screen displays your current NPS balance prominently.
6. Tap on “Transaction History” to view all contributions, switches, and withdrawals.
7. Use the “Fund Value” tab to see detailed performance metrics for each scheme (Equity, Corporate Bonds, Government Securities, and Alternative Investment).

The eNPS app also allows you to update your personal details, change your fund manager, and initiate contribution requests directly from your mobile device. Enable biometric login (fingerprint or face recognition) for faster access and enhanced security.

Method 3: Check Balance via SMS

If you prefer a quick, no-app solution, you can check your NPS balance via SMS. This service is available to subscribers whose mobile numbers are registered with their PRAN.

1. Open the messaging app on your mobile phone.
2. Type the following message: NPSBAL <PRAN> (replace <PRAN> with your actual 12-digit PRAN number).
3. Send the SMS to 5676767.
4. Within a few seconds, you will receive an automated reply with your current NPS balance, last contribution date, and fund value.

Note: This service is available only for subscribers linked to registered mobile numbers. If you haven’t registered your mobile, visit the NPS Trust website and update your details under “Profile Management.” SMS balance checks are limited to one request per day and do not provide detailed fund performance data.

Method 4: Access via Your Bank’s Net Banking Portal

If you contribute to NPS through a bank that acts as a Point of Presence (PoP)—such as SBI, HDFC, ICICI, or Axis Bank—you can often check your NPS balance directly through your bank’s net banking portal.

1. Log in to your bank’s net banking website using your credentials.
2. Navigate to the “Investments” or “Retirement Plans” section.
3. Look for an option labeled “NPS Account” or “Pension Scheme.”
4. Click on it to view your linked NPS account details.
5. Your current balance, contribution history, and fund allocation will be displayed.
6. You can also initiate additional contributions or switch funds directly from this interface.

This method is especially useful for those who already manage other financial products through their bank. However, not all banks offer full NPS integration, so availability may vary. If you don’t see the option, contact your bank’s customer support or visit their branch to link your NPS account.

Method 5: Request a Physical Statement

For subscribers who prefer traditional documentation, you can request a physical NPS account statement by post. This is particularly helpful for older subscribers or those without digital access.

1. Visit the NPS Trust website and log in to your account.
2. Go to the “Request Statement” section under “Account Services.”
3. Select “Physical Statement” and choose the frequency: monthly, quarterly, or annually.
4. Confirm your postal address. If your address has changed, update it before submitting the request.
5. Submit the request. The statement will be dispatched via registered post within 7–10 working days.

Physical statements include a detailed breakdown of contributions, returns, fees, and fund allocation. They are signed and stamped by PFRDA and can be used for official documentation.

Best Practices

Regularly checking your NPS balance is just the first step. To ensure optimal growth and compliance, follow these proven best practices:

1. Monitor Contributions Monthly

Set a monthly reminder to verify that your contributions—whether auto-debited from your bank or manually paid—have been successfully credited to your NPS account. Delays or failed transactions can impact your tax deductions and long-term corpus. If a contribution fails, contact your PoP or bank immediately to resolve the issue.

2. Review Fund Allocation Quarterly

Your NPS account allows you to allocate contributions across four asset classes: Equity (E), Corporate Bonds (C), Government Securities (G), and Alternative Investment (A). Your default allocation is determined by age, but you can switch allocations up to four times per financial year. Review your allocation every quarter to ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance and retirement timeline. Younger subscribers may benefit from higher equity exposure, while those nearing retirement should consider shifting toward government securities for stability.

3. Update Personal Details Promptly

Changes in your mobile number, email address, or residential address must be updated in your NPS profile immediately. Failure to do so may result in missed communications, failed OTP verifications, or delays in processing requests. You can update details via the NPS Trust portal or eNPS app under “Profile Management.”

4. Keep Track of Tax Benefits

Contributions to NPS are eligible for deductions under Section 80C (up to ₹1.5 lakh) and Section 80CCD(1B) (additional ₹50,000). Maintain a record of your annual contributions for accurate tax filing. Download your annual statement from the NPS portal and share it with your tax advisor or employer’s HR department if you’re claiming deductions through salary.

5. Avoid Multiple Accounts

Each individual is allowed only one NPS account. Opening a second account—intentionally or accidentally—can lead to complications in tracking your balance and may result in penalties. If you have multiple PRANs, contact PFRDA to merge them into a single account. The process is free and can be initiated through the NPS Trust portal.

6. Enable Notifications

Turn on push notifications via the eNPS app and email alerts through the NPS portal. You’ll receive instant updates for every transaction—contributions, switches, withdrawals, and maturity alerts. This helps you stay proactive and avoid surprises.

7. Plan for Withdrawals and Annuities

Under NPS rules, at least 40% of your corpus must be used to purchase an annuity at retirement. The remaining 60% can be withdrawn as a lump sum. Plan early by estimating your retirement needs and choosing an annuity provider that offers competitive returns. Use the NPS calculator on the official website to simulate different withdrawal scenarios.

Tools and Resources

Several digital tools and official resources can enhance your ability to manage and understand your NPS balance effectively. Below are the most valuable ones:

1. NPS Calculator (PFRDA Official)

The PFRDA provides a free, interactive NPS calculator on its website. This tool helps you estimate your retirement corpus based on your monthly contribution, expected rate of return, and years to retirement.

To use it:

• Visit https://www.nps.org.in/calculator
• Enter your current age, retirement age, monthly contribution, and expected annual return (typically 8–10%).
• Click “Calculate” to see your projected corpus, total contributions, and interest earned.

This tool is invaluable for setting realistic savings goals and adjusting contributions accordingly.

2. NPS Fund Performance Dashboard

PFRDA publishes monthly performance reports for all registered fund managers (e.g., SBI, ICICI Prudential, Kotak Mahindra, etc.). These reports show the historical returns of each fund across asset classes.

Access the dashboard at: https://www.nps.org.in/fund-performance

Compare returns over 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year periods to determine which fund manager consistently delivers better results. While past performance doesn’t guarantee future returns, it provides insight into management efficiency.

3. Aadhaar-Linked NPS Portal

If you have an Aadhaar number linked to your NPS account, you can use the Umang app (Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance) to check your balance. Umang integrates multiple government services, including NPS.

Steps:

1. Download the Umang app from Google Play or App Store.
2. Log in using your Aadhaar and registered mobile number.
3. Go to “PFRDA” under “Financial Services.”
4. Select “NPS Balance Inquiry” and enter your PRAN.
5. Your current balance will be displayed instantly.

This method is highly secure and ideal for users who already use Umang for other government services like income tax or passport tracking.

4. NPS Helpline and Online Chat Support

While direct customer care numbers are not to be referenced, PFRDA offers a live chat feature on the NPS Trust website during business hours (Monday–Friday, 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM). You can ask questions about balance discrepancies, contribution failures, or fund switching procedures. Responses are typically provided within 15–30 minutes.

5. Third-Party Financial Apps (with Caution)

Some personal finance apps like ETMoney, Groww, or Kuvera offer NPS balance tracking by syncing with your PRAN. While convenient, ensure the app is registered with PFRDA as a certified aggregator. Always cross-check balances with the official NPS portal to avoid data inaccuracies. Never share your password or OTP with third-party apps.

Real Examples

Understanding how NPS balance management works becomes clearer when viewed through real-life scenarios. Here are three examples illustrating common situations and how to resolve them effectively.

Example 1: Salaried Employee Missing Employer Contributions

Rahul, a 32-year-old software engineer in Bengaluru, noticed that his NPS balance hadn’t increased for three months despite regular salary deductions. He logged into the NPS Trust portal and saw that his employer’s contributions were marked as “Pending Clearance.” He downloaded the contribution history and emailed his HR department with the transaction IDs. HR confirmed a delay in bank processing due to a system upgrade and credited the pending amount within 48 hours. Rahul then enabled email alerts to avoid future surprises.

Example 2: Self-Employed Individual Maximizing Tax Benefits

Meera, a freelance graphic designer, wanted to claim the maximum ₹2 lakh deduction under Sections 80C and 80CCD(1B). She calculated her annual contributions and found she had only contributed ₹1.2 lakh. Using the NPS calculator, she projected that increasing her monthly contribution from ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 would help her reach her goal. She made a lump sum payment of ₹48,000 in March and successfully claimed the full deduction during tax filing. Her NPS balance grew by over ₹5.7 lakh in one year, including market returns.

Example 3: Retiree Switching Fund Allocation

At age 58, Arjun decided to reduce his equity exposure from 50% to 20% as he approached retirement. He logged into the eNPS app, selected “Fund Switch,” and reallocated his future contributions to Government Securities (G). He also switched 30% of his existing corpus from Equity to Government Securities. The change took effect within 48 hours, and his portfolio volatility decreased significantly. He received a notification confirming the switch and updated his retirement plan accordingly.

FAQs

Can I check my NPS balance without a PRAN?

No, your PRAN (Permanent Retirement Account Number) is mandatory to access your NPS account. It is your unique identifier, issued when you first registered. If you’ve lost your PRAN, you can retrieve it by visiting the NPS Trust website and clicking “Retrieve PRAN.” You’ll need your name, date of birth, and registered mobile number or email to recover it.

How often is my NPS balance updated?

Your NPS balance is updated daily, reflecting contributions, switches, and market-based returns. However, contributions made on weekends or holidays may appear in the system on the next business day. Fund performance values are updated by 7 PM every working day.

Why is my NPS balance lower than my total contributions?

Several factors can cause this discrepancy. First, NPS deducts a small administrative fee (₹15–20 per year) and fund management charges (0.0009%–0.25% depending on the fund manager). Second, if you’ve switched funds or made partial withdrawals, those transactions will reduce your balance. Third, market volatility—especially in equity funds—can cause short-term declines. Review your statement for transaction details to identify the cause.

Can I check my NPS balance using my Aadhaar number alone?

You can check your balance via the Umang app using your Aadhaar, but only if your Aadhaar is already linked to your NPS account. If not linked, you must first visit the NPS Trust portal and link your Aadhaar under “Profile Management.”

Is there a charge for checking my NPS balance?

No, checking your NPS balance is completely free through all official channels—the website, mobile app, SMS, and bank portals. Beware of third-party services that claim to charge a fee for balance checks; these are scams.

What should I do if my NPS balance is incorrect?

If you notice a discrepancy—such as missing contributions or incorrect fund value—first verify your transaction history. If the issue persists, raise a grievance through the “Raise Complaint” section on the NPS Trust portal. Attach supporting documents (bank statements, contribution receipts). PFRDA typically resolves complaints within 7–10 working days.

Can NRIs check their NPS balance?

Yes, NRIs who opened an NPS account before April 2021 can continue contributing and check their balance using the same methods as resident Indians. However, new NRI accounts are no longer permitted. Ensure your mobile number and email are updated for communication.

Does NPS offer interest like a fixed deposit?

No, NPS does not offer fixed interest. Returns are market-linked and depend on the performance of the underlying assets (equity, bonds, government securities). Historically, NPS has delivered average annual returns of 8–10% over the long term, outperforming many traditional savings instruments.

Can I check my NPS balance for my spouse or family member?

No, NPS accounts are individual and non-transferable. You cannot access another person’s account, even if you are a legal guardian. Each subscriber must log in using their own PRAN and credentials.

What happens to my NPS balance if I switch jobs?

Your NPS account remains active regardless of employment changes. You can continue contributing as an individual subscriber even if your employer stops contributing. Your PRAN is portable across sectors and employers. Simply update your new employer’s details in your profile to resume employer contributions.

Conclusion

Checking your NPS balance is not merely a routine task—it’s a fundamental practice for securing your financial future. Whether you use the official NPS Trust portal, the eNPS mobile app, SMS, or your bank’s net banking system, the tools are readily available and easy to use. By following the step-by-step methods outlined in this guide, you gain complete visibility into your retirement savings and the power to make informed decisions.

But knowledge alone is not enough. Consistency is key. Monitor your balance monthly, review your fund allocation quarterly, and adjust your contributions based on life changes and market conditions. Use the official calculators and performance dashboards to optimize your strategy. Avoid third-party apps that compromise security, and always verify data against the PFRDA’s official sources.

Remember, the power of NPS lies in its compounding effect. The earlier you start and the more consistently you contribute, the greater your retirement corpus will be. Even small, regular contributions can grow into a substantial sum over 20–30 years. Don’t wait until retirement to check your balance—start today. Your future self will thank you.

Take control of your financial destiny. Check your NPS balance regularly, stay informed, and invest wisely. Your retirement is not a distant dream—it’s a plan you build every day.