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ESI contribution calculator

ESI applies to employees whose gross monthly wages are ₹21,000 or less (₹25,000 for persons with disability). The employee pays 0.75% and the employer 3.25% of gross wages. Employees earning an average of ₹176 a day or less are exempt from their share.

Result

Monthly gross wages₹18,000
ESI applicable?Yes
Employee share (0.75%)₹135
Employer share (3.25%)₹585
Total ESI deposit / month₹720
Total ESI / year₹8,640

ESI formula

  • Employee ESI = 0.75% × gross wages (rounded up).
  • Employer ESI = 3.25% × gross wages (rounded up).
  • Gross wages include basic, DA, HRA and allowances, but not annual bonus, gratuity or reimbursements.

Contribution periods

ESI runs in two contribution periods — April to September and October to March. An employee covered at the start of a period stays covered till its end even if wages rise above ₹21,000.

Frequently asked questions

What is the ESI limit in 2026?

₹21,000 gross per month, or ₹25,000 for employees with a disability.

Is overtime included in ESI wages?

Overtime is included in wages for contribution but is ignored when deciding whether the employee crosses the ₹21,000 coverage limit.

When must ESI be deposited?

By the 15th of the following month.

More free resources

Rates and rules checked for FY 2025-26 (last reviewed 2026-10-04). Results are estimates for planning, not tax or legal advice.