Are you looking to apply for the 10% reservation for the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) in government jobs and educational institutions? To do so, you need a crucial document: the Income and Asset Certificate, commonly known as the EWS Certificate.
This certificate verifies that you belong to the EWS category as defined by the Government of India. Thankfully, the entire application process in Assam is now online, making it much more convenient. However, understanding the strict eligibility rules and arranging the correct documents is key to a successful application.
This guide will provide you with a complete, step-by-step walkthrough of the entire process for 2026. We’ll cover the eligibility criteria in detail, list all the required documents, and show you exactly how to apply online and download your certificate.
What is an EWS Certificate?
An EWS Certificate is an official document that certifies that a person belongs to the Economically Weaker Section of the general category. It is different from an OBC, SC, or ST certificate. This certificate is the primary document required to claim the 10% reservation in civil posts, services, and admission to educational institutions.
Eligibility Criteria for EWS Certificate in Assam
This is the most important section. You must meet ALL of the following criteria to be eligible.
- General Category: You must not belong to any of the reserved categories like SC, ST, or OBC.
- Family Income: Your gross annual family income from all sources (salary, agriculture, business, etc.) must be less than ₹8 lakh for the financial year prior to the year of application.
- Agricultural Land: Your family must not own 5 acres of agricultural land or more.
- Residential Flat: Your family must not own a residential flat of 1000 sq. ft. or more.
- Residential Plot (Municipality): Your family must not own a residential plot of 100 sq. yards (approx. 900 sq. ft.) or more in a notified municipality.
- Residential Plot (Other Areas): Your family must not own a residential plot of 200 sq. yards (approx. 1800 sq. ft.) or more in areas other than notified municipalities.
What does “Family” include? For the EWS certificate, “family” includes the applicant, their parents, their spouse, and their children below the age of 18 years.
Required Documents for Online Application
To ensure a smooth application, keep clear scanned copies or photos of the following documents ready.
| Document Category | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | PAN Card (Mandatory) |
| Proof of Address | Aadhaar Card / Passport / Bank Passbook / Landline Bill |
| Proof of Assam Residency | Permanent Resident Certificate (PRC) of the applicant or their parents. |
| Income Proof | Latest Income Certificate of the family, issued by the Circle Officer. |
| Land Records | Jamabandi / Land Patta of the applicant’s family (if any). |
| Other Documents | Passport-sized photograph, Scanned signature, Self-declaration form (available on the portal). |
Important Tip: The PAN Card is mandatory for the EWS application. Ensure you have it before you begin. The Income Certificate must be recent and reflect the income of the previous financial year.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for EWS Certificate Online
The application is processed through the Sewa Setu Assam Portal. Follow these steps carefully.
Step 1: Visit the Official Sewa Setu Portal
To begin, open your web browser and go to the official website.
- Official Portal Link:
https://sewasetu.assam.gov.in/
Step 2: Log In to Your Account
On the homepage, you need to log in to your account.
- Enter your 10-digit mobile number.
- You will receive a 6-digit OTP on your phone.
- Enter the OTP to securely log in.
Step 3: Find the EWS Certificate Service
Once logged in, use the search bar to find the correct service.
- Type “Income and Asset” or “EWS” in the search bar.
- The service named “Issuance of Income and Asset Certificate for EWS” will appear. Click on it.
Step 4: Fill the Online Application Form
An online form will open. You must fill in all the details accurately and honestly.
- Applicant Details: Your name, father’s name, date of birth, PAN card number, etc.
- Address Details: Your complete permanent address.
- Family Income & Asset Details: Provide details of your family’s gross annual income and declare that you meet all the asset criteria.
Step 5: Upload All Required Documents
Now, you will be prompted to upload the scanned copies of the documents listed in the table above.
- Upload each document in its respective field.
- Ensure the files are in the specified format (usually JPG, PNG, or PDF) and are clear and readable.
Step 6: Submit the Application
After filling the form and uploading all documents, carefully review the entire application one last time.
- Once you are sure all details are correct, click the “Submit” button.
- Upon successful submission, an Application Reference Number (ARTPS No.) will be generated. Save this number immediately. You will need it to track your application.
How to Check Your EWS Application Status
You can easily track the progress of your application online.
- Go to the official RTPS Assam Portal:
https://rtps.assam.gov.in/ - Click on the “Track Application Status” link on the homepage.
- Enter your Application Reference Number (ARTPS No.).
- Click “Track”. The current status of your application will be displayed.
How to Download Your EWS Certificate
Once your application is approved by the Circle Officer, you can download the digitally signed certificate.
- Visit the Sewa Setu Portal again and log in.
- On your dashboard, find your EWS application under the “My Applications” or “Track Status” section.
- If the status is “Approved” or “Delivered,” a “Download Certificate” button will be active.
- Click the download button to save the certificate as a PDF file. This is your official, digitally signed document.
Related Post: Income Certificate Assam
Important Link of EWS Certificate Assam
| Income and Asset Certificate Format | Click Here |
| EWS Certificate Format | Click Here |
| Official EWS Assam Memorandum | Link 1 | Link 2 |
Important Links and Fees
| Service | Link | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Apply / Download (Sewa Setu) | https://sewasetu.assam.gov.in/ | ₹30 (Service Charge) |
| Track Application Status (RTPS) | https://rtps.assam.gov.in/ | Free |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long is the EWS certificate valid for?
Answer: An EWS certificate is valid for one financial year. For example, a certificate issued in 2026 will be valid for the financial year 2026-2027. You must re-apply for it every year with a new income certificate.
Q2: Can an OBC candidate apply for an EWS certificate?
Answer: No. The EWS reservation is specifically for individuals who are in the “General” category and are not covered under any other reservation scheme like SC, ST, or OBC.
Q3: What if my family’s income is slightly above ₹8 lakh?
Answer: If your gross family income exceeds the ₹8 lakh threshold, you are not eligible for the EWS certificate, even if you meet all other asset criteria.
Q4: What if my application gets rejected?
Answer: If your application is rejected, the portal will show the specific reason (e.g., “Income exceeds limit,” “PAN Card not provided”). You must address the specific issue. For example, if the income was miscalculated, you may need to provide additional proof to the Circle Office. You can then re-apply through the portal.
