The Employees’ Trust Fund Board (ETFB) has announced that all employers employing 15 or more employees will henceforth be required to submit Employees’ Trust Fund (ETF) contributions and monthly returns exclusively through electronic means. 

In accordance with the provisions published in Extraordinary Gazette No. 2311/39 dated 22 December 2022, and in line with the Government’s current Digital Economy Policy, this requirement will be strictly enforced commencing with ETF contributions relating to July 2026, which are payable on or before 31 August 2026, a statement said. 

To facilitate this transition, electronic banking facilities have been made available through nine designated commercial banks. Employers who do not maintain accounts with these designated banks may also make ETF contribution payments through any other bank using the Direct Debit facility. Employers are requested to meet their bank manager and register for this service as soon as possible. 

Accordingly, the ETF Board emphasizes that it will no longer accept ETF contribution payments made by cash, cheques or money orders from employers employing 15 or more employees. In addition, printed half-yearly returns submitted by such employers will no longer be accepted, it said. 

Although the use of this electronic system is not mandatory for employers employing fewer than 15 employees, they are strongly encouraged to adopt electronic payment and electronic submission of returns whenever possible, considering its efficiency, security and convenience. 

The Board requests all employers to adopt this system to ensure the timely, accurate and convenient payment of ETF contributions while avoiding the imposition of surcharges. 

Further information may be obtained from the Head Office of the Employees’ Trust Fund Board, the nearest Regional Office, or by visiting the official website at www.etfb.lk