ICAI Announces Last Opportunity for MEF 2025-26 Submission: Portal to Reopen for these Two Days

In response to multiple representations from members who were unable to complete their Multipurpose Empanelment Form (MEF) submission for 2025–26, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has announced one final opportunity to file the form.

The Professional Development Committee (PDC) of ICAI stated that the MEF submission window will reopen exclusively for two days October 16 and 17, 2025, via the official website MEF.

The ICAI, through its notification dated 14th October 2025, emphasized that this extension is being provided as a last chance, keeping in mind the requests received from members citing varied reasons for not completing the application within the initial timeframe.

MEF forms the foundation for the empanelment of Chartered Accountants and audit firms with various government and public sector undertakings, including the Reserve Bank of India, Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG), and other institutions.

The MEF process is an annual exercise that determines the eligibility and categorization of audit firms and individual Chartered Accountants for various statutory and non-statutory assignments. It serves as a centralized database of practicing members, enabling transparency and uniformity in the empanelment process.

This year’s submission for MEF 2025–26 witnessed a significant number of professionals facing technical or procedural delays, prompting the ICAI to reopen the portal for a short duration. The PDC has clarified that no further extensions will be entertained beyond the specified two-day window. Members are therefore urged to ensure all documentation, declarations, and firm details are finalized before attempting submission to avoid last-minute issues.

The MEF portal has been continually enhanced for ease of use, incorporating digital verification features, data synchronization with ICAI records, and streamlined validation of firm details. However, members are advised to review the information carefully especially relating to partner details, branch information, and firm constitution before submission, as inaccurate or incomplete entries may affect eligibility for empanelment.

Members who missed earlier deadlines can visit https://meficai.org/ and complete their MEF application between October 16 and 17, 2025. ICAI has urged all eligible members to take advantage of this final opportunity and avoid any further delay in submission.

Support our journalism by subscribing to Taxscan premium. Follow us on Telegram for quick updates