New Delhi, April 27 -- Regular contributions to the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) accumulate over time with interest credited annually. The balance reflects both employee and employer contributions, as well as interest. EPF offers an interest of 8.25% per annum, applicable to over 70 million subscribers nationwide.

Most employees contribute 12% of their basic salary plus dearness allowance (subject to a maximum of Rs. 15,000) every month towards EPF. The employer also contributes an equivalent 12%, of which 3.67% is deposited into the EPF account, while the remaining 8.33% is directed to the employee's EPS account.

Assuming that the interest rate remains constant, then a monthly contribution of Rs.5,000 over a 30-year period can grow ...