Table of Contents
NPS pension issues — withdrawal, annuity, RTI (2026 guide)
Quick answer: NPS at maturity (age 60): 60% lump-sum + 40% annuity (mandatory). Pre-mature exit allowed in limited cases. PFRDA regulates.
Key facts
- NPS Tier 1: lock-in till 60
- Tier 2: no lock-in
- At 60: 60% lump-sum + 40% annuity (mandatory)
- 7 ASPs (Annuity Service Providers) for annuity
- Pre-mature exit: terminal illness / death / first-home / marriage
Step-by-step process
- At 60: submit exit form to POP — Online via eNPS.
- Choose ASP for annuity — 7 providers (LIC, HDFC, ICICI, etc.).
- Lump-sum to bank — Tax-free.
- Annuity begins immediately — Lifelong pension.
- Pre-mature withdrawal: specific events only — PFRDA approval needed.
- RTI for delays — PFRDA + NPSCRA.
Documents needed
- PRAN (Permanent Retirement Account Number)
- PAN
- Bank account
- Aadhaar
Common issues + how to handle
- Exit form delayed — RTI to NPSCRA.
- Annuity selection limited — only 7 ASPs; choose at maturity.
- Pre-mature withdrawal denied — RTI for criteria.
- Pension annuity rate dispute — RTI to ASP.
If stuck — file an RTI
Most “delays” or “rejections” clear within 7-15 days of an RTI being filed. Use this 5-question template:
1. Status of my application no. _____ dated _____ as on date. 2. Name + designation of dealing officer assigned to my file. 3. Reasons for delay beyond the statutory timeline. 4. Copy of any noting / movement of my file in the past 30 days. 5. Likely date of resolution / decision.
Auto-fill the PIO + your case: Open the AI RTI Drafter →
Frequently asked questions
Lump-sum tax-free?
Yes — 60% lump-sum is tax-exempt at withdrawal.
Annuity rate?
Set by ASP at purchase. RTI for current rates.
Multiple ASPs comparison?
Annuity rates vary 2-5% across ASPs. Compare before choosing.
Exit pre-60?
Limited: terminal illness, death, first-home, child marriage. PFRDA approval.
Summary + next step
Bottom line: NPS at maturity (age 60): 60% lump-sum + 40% annuity (mandatory). Pre-mature exit allowed in limited cases. PFRDA regulates. If delayed beyond statutory timeline, file an RTI — most cases clear within 15 days.
- AI RTI Drafter: Auto-fill PIO + your case
- Browse all pension guides: Index
Related
Last reviewed: 26 April 2026.

