NPS Goes Digital: Open Your Account in 3 Steps

PFRDA has launched a new digital platform called StAR NPS that lets you open an NPS account online using e-KYC, make contributions, and get your PRAN number — all with a one-time ₹200 charge.

Here's what happened: PFRDA launched StAR NPS, a fully digital onboarding platform for new NPS subscribers via registered Points of Presence (PoPs).. The platform enables e-KYC verification, PRAN (Permanent Retirement Account Number) generation, and contribution processing in one place.. A flat ₹200 onboarding fee applies; all existing NPS rules, charges, and subscriber benefits remain unchanged..

What you should do: Visit your bank or registered NPS Point of Presence online and check if they have activated the StAR NPS portal for digital onboarding.. Keep your Aadhaar, PAN, and bank account details ready — e-KYC means you can complete the entire process without visiting a branch.. Compare Tier I (tax-saving, locked till 60) and Tier II (flexible withdrawal) accounts before opening — choose based on your retirement and liquidity needs..

NPS contributions up to ₹50,000 per year qualify for an additional tax deduction under Section 80CCD(1B) — over and above the ₹1.5 lakh Section 80C limit. Most salaried people miss this.