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How to get PenCom Certificate

The PenCom Certificate, officially known as the Pension Clearance Certificate (PCC), is a statutory compliance document that the National Pension Commission (PenCom) issues to employers who comply with the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) under the Pension Reform Act (PRA) 2014.

Many organizations require this certificate to access government contracts, licenses, and regulatory approvals. Employers cannot treat the PenCom Certificate as optional, the law makes it mandatory. This guide explains how to obtain the certificate, outlines the requirements, and shares best practices for a smooth application process.

PENCOM Certificate

PENCOM CERTIFICATE ;The PCC is evidence of compliance with the PRA 2014 and a prerequisite for all suppliers, contractors, or consultants, soliciting any contract or business

Understanding the PenCom Certificate

The PenCom Certificate confirms that an employer has fully complied with pension obligations. It shows that the employer:

  • Has registered under the Contributory Pension Scheme

  • Has enrolled eligible employees with licensed Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs)

  • Remits pension contributions accurately and consistently

  • Complies with Nigerian pension regulations

PenCom issues the certificate annually and processes applications mainly through its online portal.

Who Must Obtain a PenCom Certificate?

Under the Pension Reform Act 2014, the following employers must obtain a PenCom Certificate:

  • Public and private sector employers with five or more employees

  • Organizations bidding for or executing federal government contracts

  • Companies required to show pension compliance to regulators

Even when exemptions apply, many organizations still obtain the certificate to strengthen their compliance profile and credibility.

Requirements for Obtaining a PenCom Certificate

Before applying, employers must ensure they meet these requirements:

  • Register with the National Pension Commission

  • Engage a PenCom-licensed Pension Fund Administrator

  • Ensure all employees have valid Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs)

  • Maintain regular and up-to-date pension remittances

  • Keep accurate payroll and employee records

  • Obtain a valid group life assurance certificate

Failure to meet any of these requirements can delay or prevent certificate issuance.

Step-by-Step Process to Get a PenCom Certificate

Step 1: Register Your Organization with PenCom

Employers must first register with PenCom and provide company details. PenCom then issues an Employer Identification Code, which employers use for pension reporting and compliance monitoring.

Step 2: Ensure Employees Have Retirement Savings Accounts

Employers must ensure that all eligible employees open RSAs with PenCom-licensed PFAs of their choice. Employers must not exclude any eligible employee from the pension scheme.

Step 3: Remit Pension Contributions Consistently

Employers must remit pension contributions monthly, covering both employer and employee portions as required by law. Timely and accurate remittance is critical because PenCom reviews contribution history before approving the certificate.

Step 4: Access the PenCom PCC Online Portal

Employers submit applications through the Pension Clearance Certificate online portal. Applicants log in using their PenCom registration credentials.

Step 5: Complete the Online Application

Employers must provide key information, including:

  • Company and employer details

  • Number of employees

  • Pension remittance history

  • PFA details

PenCom may also request supporting documents during this stage.

Step 6: PenCom Conducts Compliance Verification

After submission, PenCom verifies compliance by confirming that:

  • Pension contributions are up to date

  • Employee records are accurate

  • No outstanding pension liabilities exist

If PenCom identifies discrepancies, it requests clarification or additional documents.

Step 7: PenCom Issues the Certificate

Once PenCom completes verification successfully, it issues the PenCom Certificate electronically. The certificate remains valid for one year from the date of issuance.

Renewal of the PenCom Certificate

Employers must renew the PenCom Certificate annually. Continuous compliance throughout the year improves renewal chances. Late remittances or inaccurate records often delay renewal.

Common Challenges Employers Face

Employers often experience delays due to:

  • Incomplete or inaccurate employee information

  • Outstanding pension contributions

  • Failure to enroll all eligible employees

  • Weak payroll and documentation systems

Early resolution of these issues speeds up the application process.

Best Practices for a Smooth Application Process

Employers can improve their chances of timely approval by:

  • Remitting pension contributions promptly every month

  • Maintaining accurate and updated payroll records

  • Conducting periodic pension compliance reviews

  • Working closely with PFAs and pension compliance advisors

Consequences of Not Obtaining a PenCom Certificate

Employers who fail to obtain or renew their PenCom Certificate may face:

  • Disqualification from government contracts and tenders

  • Financial penalties and interest charges

  • Regulatory sanctions and enforcement actions

  • Loss of credibility and reputational damage

Conclusion

Obtaining a PenCom Certificate remains a critical obligation for employers operating in Nigeria. Beyond legal compliance, the certificate demonstrates commitment to employee welfare, strong governance, and regulatory discipline

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