A lot of salaried people see some amount being deducted from their salary every month in the name of NPS but don’t know exactly where it goes or how to check the balance. If you also wonder how to see your NPS (National Pension System) account details, then you are not alone.
NPS is a government pension scheme created to help you save for your old age. The money deducted every month from your salary is deposited in your NPS account, which earns returns over time based on the market. The good part is, this money builds up slowly and turns into a big amount by the time you retire.
Let’s understand how you can easily check your NPS contributions — from the website, mobile apps, and even missed call or SMS.
What is NPS and Why It’s Important
NPS is a retirement-focused investment plan managed by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA). It has two types of accounts:
- Tier-I Account: This is your main NPS account where all mandatory contributions go. It is locked till the age of 60.
- Tier-II Account: This is an optional account where you can deposit and withdraw anytime.
If you are a government or private employee, a fixed portion of your salary goes to the Tier-I NPS account. After the age of 60, you can withdraw up to 60% of your savings as lump sum. The rest 40% must be used to buy an annuity, which gives you monthly pension.
Now let’s see how to track this growing money.
Option 1: Check Your NPS Balance Through NSDL Website
You can check your NPS account online in just a few minutes. Here’s how:
- Visit the official CRA website for NPS: https://cra-nsdl.com
- Click on “Login for NPS Account Holder”
- Use your PRAN (Permanent Retirement Account Number) as user ID
- Enter your password and the captcha code
- After login, go to the Transaction Statement section
- You will see the complete history of your contributions and current holding balance
You can also download your holding statement as a PDF for records.
Option 2: Use the NPS Mobile App
You can check your NPS account on mobile using the NPS by Protean CRA app. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Download the NPS by Protean CRA app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store
- Open the app and log in using your PRAN number and password
- Once logged in, go to the Holdings section
- Choose between Tier-I or Tier-II account
- You will see your current NPS value and last 5 transactions
This app also allows you to:
- Update your profile
- Change mobile number or email
- View nominee details
Option 3: Track NPS Through Umang App
The Umang App is a government app that gives access to many services including NPS. Follow these steps:
- Download Umang App from Play Store or App Store
- Open the app and search for NPS
- Tap on CRA – Central Recordkeeping Agency under NPS
- Select Current Holding option
- Log in with your PRAN and password
- You will now see your NPS account balance and recent transactions
This method is easy and very useful if you already use Umang for other government services.
Option 4: Missed Call or SMS to Know Balance
You don’t need a smartphone or internet to check your balance. You can also use your registered mobile number to check your NPS balance.
- Give a missed call to 9212993399
- You will get an SMS with your latest NPS account balance
Or you can also:
- Call customer care at (022) 2499 3499
- Talk to the executive to know your NPS balance or to solve any issue
Make sure your mobile number is linked to your PRAN.
Why You Should Keep Checking NPS Contributions
Many people ignore tracking their NPS account regularly. But checking your contribution and balance is important for a few reasons:
- Make sure your employer is depositing the correct amount
- Track the growth of your retirement fund
- Ensure no errors or missing entries in your account
- Plan for additional voluntary contributions (VCC) if needed
Keeping an eye on your NPS account ensures your hard-earned money is growing properly for your retirement years.
What to Do If You Forgot PRAN or Password?
If you don’t remember your PRAN or password, don’t worry. You can recover it:
- Visit https://cra-nsdl.com
- Click on “Forgot Password” option
- Enter your PRAN, date of birth, and registered mobile/email
- You will receive reset instructions on your registered contact details
If you don’t know your PRAN at all, check your salary slip or contact your employer’s HR department.
Final Tips to Stay Updated on NPS
- Keep your mobile number and email updated in the NPS account
- Enable email/SMS alerts for every contribution
- Download the Protean CRA NPS app for quick tracking
- Check at least once a month for new contributions
- Report any errors or missing amounts immediately to CRA or PFRDA
