EWS Certificate - What Is It & How to Fill It?

The economically weaker section (EWS) certificate is a crucial document in India for those not covered by reservation groups like ST, SC, or OBC. This category benefits individuals from families earning less than ₹8 lakh annually, placing them in the general category but without the economic advantages of other reserved groups.

Recognising their needs, the Indian government has allocated a 10% reservation for EWS members in educational institutions and government jobs. This guarantees that people who fulfil the EWS criteria are given a chance to advance in their studies and professional paths.

The economic weaker section certificate serves as proof of eligibility for this reservation. It offers a pathway for those in the economically weaker section of EWS to improve their socio-economic status through loans.

What is the EWS Certificate? Understanding Its Impact

If you're wondering, "What is an EWS certificate?", it's a document created by the government to help individuals from economically weaker sections gain better access to education and jobs.

It started in 2019, first in Gujarat, to help those who don't fall under the usual reservation categories for SC, ST, or OBC but still need financial support because of their low income.

Understanding the "EWS certificate meaning" involves seeing it as a tool that helps people with less money get fair chances and opportunities. This certificate provides these individuals with a 10% reservation in colleges and government jobs, promoting more equitable competition

To get this certificate, a person must prove their income and assets are below a certain level.

Parameter	Detail
Type of Certificate	EWS Certificate
Law Name	Economically Weaker Section Bill
Service Portal Name	National E-Governance Service Portal
Official Website	services.india.gov.in
Responsible Department	Department of Revenue
Mode of Application	Both Online and Offline
Duration of Validity	One Year

Parameter	Detail
Type of Certificate	EWS Certificate
Law Name	Economically Weaker Section Bill
Service Portal Name	National E-Governance Service Portal
Official Website	services.india.gov.in
Responsible Department	Department of Revenue
Mode of Application	Both Online and Offline
Duration of Validity	One Year

Eligibility Criteria for the Economic Weaker Section Certificate

1. Category Eligibility:
   1. Your family's annual income must be at most ₹8 lakhs. This includes all income sources—salary, business earnings, agriculture, and private sector jobs.
2. Income Threshold:
   1. Your family's annual income must be at most ₹8 lakhs. This includes all income sources—salary, business earnings, agriculture, and private sector jobs.
3. Land Ownership:
   1. If you own agricultural land, it must be less than 5 acres.
   2. The plot should be at most 100 square metres for residential property in urban areas (notified municipalities).
   3. In rural areas (non-notified municipalities), the residential plot must be under 200 square metres.
4. House Size:
   1. Any residential flats owned should not be larger than 100 square metres (approximately 1076 square feet).

Benefits of the EWS Certificate for the Economically Weaker Section

The economic weaker section certificate provides several significant benefits for those in the general category who need financial support.

Benefit	Description
Access to Education	Ensures a 10% quota in universities recognised by the UGC.
Job Opportunities	Allows for a 10% reservation in public sector positions.
Government Schemes	Facilitates participation in state and central government subsidy schemes for support.
Broadening Opportunities	Supports individuals in improving their social and economic standing through education and work opportunities.

Benefit	Description
Access to Education	Ensures a 10% quota in universities recognised by the UGC.
Job Opportunities	Allows for a 10% reservation in public sector positions.
Government Schemes	Facilitates participation in state and central government subsidy schemes for support.
Broadening Opportunities	Supports individuals in improving their social and economic standing through education and work opportunities.

How to Apply for an EWS Certificate

Applying for an economic weaker section certificate is straightforward and can be done online or at a local office.

Online Application Procedure:

1. Visit the Website: Go to the official state website that handles EWS applications.
2. Find the Right Section: Look for the section labelled 'Economic Weaker Section Certificate' or 'Income Certificate for EWS'.
3. Fill in your Details: Enter your personal and income details in the application form.
4. Upload Documents: Attach scans or photos of all the required documents.
5. Pay the Fee: If there’s a fee, pay it online using the available payment options.
6. Submit Your Application: Double-check your information, submit your application, and save the confirmation receipt.

Offline Application Procedure:

1. Visit the Local Office: You can apply at the office of the Tehsildar, District Magistrate, or similar authority. Community Service Centres (CSCs) also accept applications.
2. Get the Form: You can pick up an application form from the office or download and print it from the website.
3. Complete the Form: Fill out the form carefully with all the required details.
4. Attach Required Documents: Make sure you have copies of all necessary documents with your form.
5. Submit and Pay Fee: Hand in your form and documents, pay any necessary fee, and collect your receipt.

Documents you’ll need:

Ensure you have these items ready to make your application process smoother:

1. Aadhaar Card
2. PAN Card
3. Income Certificate
4. Bank Statement
5. Property or Land Proof
6. Domicile Certificate or Residential Proof
7. Passport-Sized Photograph
8. Self-Declaration or Affidavit

EWS Certificates & Loan Opportunities

An economic weaker section certificate can help you get better loan deals. Here’s how:

1. Easier Loan Access: Banks see the economically weaker section certificate as a sign that you might need extra financial help. This can make it easier for you to get a loan.
2. Special Loan Offers: Loans are available for people with an EWS certificate. These loans often have lower interest rates and more accessible repayment terms, making them more affordable.
3. Better Loan Conditions: An economically weaker section certificate might allow you to borrow more money over a longer loan term.

Tracking Your EWS Certificate Application

How to Check Your EWS Certificate Status:

1. Find Your State’s Website: Each state in India has a website for handling EWS applications. You must go to the website for your state.
2. Log In: Add your username and password to access your account on the website.
3. Look for Status Check: There should be a section labelled ‘Check Application Status.’ Click on this.
4. Enter your Details: You should enter your application number or other information you received when you first applied.
5. See your Status: Your application status should appear on the screen after you enter your details.

Empower Your Financial Future with KreditBee

If you need a simple way to manage your finances and qualify for an economic weaker section certificate, KreditBee is an excellent option. Here’s why:

1. Fast and Easy: Apply from anywhere, anytime, and get money in your bank.
2. Straightforward Process: Our application is easy to fill out, especially if you have your economic weaker section certificate handy.
3. Trusted Nationwide: Across India, people who qualify under the economically weaker section (EWS) trust KreditBee for quick financial support.

KreditBee supports your financial growth by making it easy to access funds with your economically weaker section certificate. Check out our services and see how we can help you achieve your financial goals.

Frequently Asked Questions About the EWS Certificate