In India, the older population largely counts on pension schemes as their source of constant monthly income post-retirement. In 2026, major changes and clarifications have been made to some of the key pension programs like EPS-95, OPS, and social security pensions.
The modifications are very much a factor in the present-day finance setting that many retirees and soon-to-be retirees are going through. With inflation still taking a toll on daily expenses, even the slightest relaxation of pension rules could mean a lot.
EPS Pension Calculation Gets the Big Change
The Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS-95) will for one thing change the basis of its pension calculation in 2026 to the average salary of the last 60 months (5 years) instead of the last 12 months.
The pension amounts are intended to be more equitable and less dependent on sudden last-year salary hikes.
Who is the Gainer from the 60-Month Rule?
The longest- serving employees with consistent careers will reap the most benefits. Those who got a big bump in the salary just in the last year will now receive a realistic pension.
The people already getting pensions (those whose retirement was before 2026) will still be governed by the old rule.
No Changes in Old Pension Scheme(OPS).
The government employees who fall under the Old Pension Scheme (pre-2004) will see no effects of the 2026 changes.
They will keep receiving half of the last drawn salary as pension, along with dearness relief that is paid twice a year.
Higher Minimum Pension For EPS
The minimum monthly pension for EPS stays at ₹1,000 for the year 2025–26 while no significant raise has yet been announced.
Nonetheless, a number of states offer extra payments for the purpose of supporting low-income retirees.
Atal Pension Yojana (APY) Remains the Same
At the age of 60, APY still provides users with a sure monthly pension of ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 based on the level of contribution made.
There are no significant changes planned in 2026, but the government is planning to run more awareness campaigns.
Senior Citizen Social Pension Schemes
In the 2025-26 budgets, many states raised the social pensions for the poorest of the elderly.
The monthly pension amounts currently widely spread across the states range from ₹1,500 to ₹3,000.
Quick Comparison: Major Pension Schemes (2026)
| Scheme | Pension Calculation Basis | Minimum Monthly Pension | Key Update in 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| EPS-95 (Private Sector) | Average of last 60 months | ₹1,000 | 60-month average rule starts |
| Old Pension Scheme | 50% of last pay + DR | No fixed minimum | No change |
| Atal Pension Yojana | Fixed based on contribution | ₹1,000–₹5,000 | No change, more outreach |
| State Social Pension | State government decides | ₹1,500–₹3,000 (varies) | Many states increased in 2025–26 |
By updating the pensions in 2026, the government has introduced not just increases in fair treatment in EPS but also brought stability to other major schemes. The older population now can work with the new rules in a better way in planning their retirement.
Go to the closest EPFO office, browse the EPFO site, or contact your local social welfare department to find out your exact pension claim today. Knowing early helps in better planning!