The Government Employees Pension Ombud (GEPO) has warned Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) members,
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The Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) members, pensioners and beneficiaries have been warned by the Government Employees Pension Ombud (GEPO) against paying agents or intermediaries to lodge complaints.
This comes just weeks after GEPF confirmed a 3.5% pension increase from April 2026, based on inflation, with adjustments linked to the fund’s affordability and long-term financial sustainability.
"Pensioners who retired on or before 1 April 2025 are to receive an increase of 3.5%. Pensioners who retired after 1 April 2025 are to receive a proportionate increase based on the number of months they have been in receipt of pension up to 31 March 2026," the fund said last month.
In a brief statement, GEPO said pensioners do not have to pay anyone to access its services, adding that complaints can be submitted directly to the office free of charge, with supporting documents, for investigation and resolution.
"You do NOT need to pay anyone to lodge a complaint with the Government Employees Pension Ombud (GEPO)".
"The Ombud office was created to help you resolve complaints fairly, independently, and efficiently." GEPO said.
The ombud added that its role is to provide a free dispute-resolution service for pension-related issues, and cautioned members to avoid third parties who charge fees for services that can be accessed directly.
"You can submit your complaint directly to GEPO without using: Agents Intermediaries. Lawyers (unless you choose to),".
How pensioners can lodge a complaint with GEPO:
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za
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