New Delhi:
Central Government employees filing claims for Academic Year 2025-26 must note the Revised Rates. Since Dearness Allowance (DA) has crossed the 50% threshold, the Children Education Allowance (CEA) limits have been automatically enhanced by 25% as per 7th Pay Commission rules.
Updated on: 16 January 2026 | Verified against DoPT OM No. A-27012/02/2017-Estt.(AL).
CEA Rates 2026: Revised Limit ₹2,812.50 & Claim Rules
Quick Answer
The CEA reimbursement rate is now ₹2,812.50 per month (₹33,750 annually) per child. The Hostel Subsidy has increased to ₹8,437.50 per month. These rates are fixed irrespective of actual expenses, provided you submit valid receipts/certificates.
Why the Rate Increased
As per DoPT instructions, allowance limits automatically rise by 25% every time the DA crosses 50%. Since DA crossed 50% on 01.01.2024, these higher rates are applicable for all claims filed in 2026.
✅ New Rate Card (Effective 2026)
| Component | Old Rate (DA < 50%) | New Rate (DA > 50%) | Annual Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| CEA (Normal) | ₹2,250 pm | ₹2,812.50 pm | ₹33,750 |
| CEA (Divyang) | ₹4,500 pm | ₹5,625 pm | ₹67,500 |
| Hostel Subsidy | ₹6,750 pm | ₹8,437.50 pm | ₹1,01,250 |
Risk / Denial: Why Claims Fail
You will NOT get this if:
1. Distance Rule: For Hostel Subsidy, the hostel must be at least 50 km away from your residence (unless exempt due to transfer).
2. 3rd Child: Claim is only valid for the two eldest surviving children (Exception: Twin birth after 1st child).
3. Age Limit: Child must be below 20 years (22 years for Divyang).
Mandatory Documents for 2026 Claim
To claim the enhanced rate, ensure your application includes:
- Form: Self-declaration format as per DoPT.
- Proof: Original Fee Receipts (for the whole year) OR Certificate from Head of Institution.
- Report Card: Not mandatory, but proof of “studying in the class” is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will CEA increase again if DA hits 60%?
No. The rule is for a hike only when DA crosses 50% and then 100%. The next revision will happen only when Dearness Allowance crosses the 100% mark.
Can I claim Hostel Subsidy and CEA together?
Yes. If your child stays in a hostel, you can claim both CEA (₹2,812.50) and Hostel Subsidy (₹8,437.50) concurrently. The total annual benefit per child can go up to ₹1,35,000.
🇮🇳 हिंदी में सारांश (Summary in Hindi)
CEA की नई दरें 2026 (DA 50% के बाद)
1. नई राशि: महंगाई भत्ता (DA) 50% पार होने के कारण, अब एक बच्चे की पढ़ाई के लिए ₹2,812.50 प्रति माह (सालाना ₹33,750) मिलेंगे।
2. हॉस्टल: अगर बच्चा हॉस्टल में रहता है, तो अब ₹8,437.50 प्रति माह मिलेंगे।
3. कब बढ़ेगा? अब अगली बढ़ोतरी तभी होगी जब DA 100% को पार करेगा। 60% या 70% DA होने पर CEA नहीं बढ़ेगा।