The most common reason for salary bill objections in April isn’t math; it’s the “Bonafide Certificate.” As the academic year 2024-25 concludes, Central Government employees are gearing up to file their Children Education Allowance (CEA) claims. However, with the Dearness Allowance (DA) crossing 50%, the stakes are higher this year. The reimbursement limit has automatically jumped by 25%, and Audit Officers are scrutinizing claims with renewed vigor to prevent “double drawal” or ineligible payouts.

This isn’t just about filling a form. It’s about ensuring the document you get from the school principal withstands the “Pay & Accounts Office” (PAO) check.

The 25% Hike: New Claim Limits for 2025-26

Because DA hit 50% on January 1, 2024, the CEA limits were automatically revised. If you are filing a claim for the academic year 2024-25 (which you will do in April 2025), you are entitled to the enhanced rates. Many employees are still filling the old amounts in their self-declaration forms, leading to under-payment.

The “Bonafide” Trap: Why Claims Get Returned

While DoPT OM No. A-27012/02/2017-Estt.(AL) allows for a “Self-Declaration” or report card copy for standard CEA, the Hostel Subsidy still strictly demands a certificate from the Head of the Institution.

Audit Observation: A common error occurs when parents attach a fee receipt that says “Boarding Charges” but fails to explicitly state that the child “resided in the hostel” for the specific period. The PAO requires the word “Residential” or “Hostel” clearly mentioned on the certificate to differentiate it from day-boarding or bus fees, which are not reimbursable under Hostel Subsidy.

School Office Checklist (Do Not Leave Without Checking This)

When you approach the school administration for the certificate, ensure their draft includes these four specific data points. If any are missing, your claim is liable for objection.

If you cannot get the school to sign the specific format, a self-attested copy of the Final Report Card or Fee Receipts (showing tuition fee payment for the entire year) is widely accepted for CEA. However, the report card must clearly indicate the “Academic Year”.

Important Note for Divyang Children

For differently-abled children, the rates are double the normal rates (i.e., ₹5,625 per month). However, this enhanced rate is NOT automatic. You must attach a valid Disability Certificate issued by a competent medical authority with your first claim. Subsequent claims usually require a self-declaration that the condition persists (for permanent disability).