New Delhi: You can now withdraw your entire EPF account. The Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) announced this at a meeting of its Central Board of Trustees (CBT) on Monday, October 13. Several significant decisions were taken at the meeting, chaired by Union Labor Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. These decisions will make it easier for salaried individuals to withdraw their EPF funds.
Major decisions taken at the EPFO meeting
100% withdrawal facility now available: The EPFO has eliminated 13 previously cumbersome rules and now allows partial withdrawals in only three categories: essential needs (illness, education, marriage), housing needs (house-related expenses), and special circumstances. Members will now be able to withdraw the entire balance in their PF account (including both the employee and employer portions).
Previously, only three withdrawals were allowed for education and marriage, but now 10 withdrawals can be made for education and five for marriage. Furthermore, the minimum service period has also been reduced to 12 months, which previously varied for different needs.
Withdrawals without giving a reason: Previously, in special circumstances (such as natural disasters, unemployment, or pandemics), a reason had to be given for withdrawals, which often resulted in claims being rejected. Now, this hassle has been eliminated. Members will be able to withdraw without giving a reason under special circumstances.
25% minimum balance required: EPFO has also ensured that members always maintain a minimum balance of 25% in their accounts. This will allow members to benefit from an interest rate of 8.25% and compound interest, allowing them to build a substantial fund for retirement.
Auto-settlement process simplifies: Under the new rules, no documentation will be required to be submitted. The withdrawal process is set to be fully automated, which will speed up claim settlement. The period for premature final settlement has been extended from two months to 12 months, and the period for pension withdrawals has been extended from two months to 36 months. This will allow members to withdraw funds for their needs without using their retirement funds.
Digital facility for pensioners: EPFO has signed an agreement with India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) to enable EPS 95 pensioners to submit Digital Life Certificates (DLCs) from the comfort of their homes. This facility will be free, and EPFO will bear the cost of Rs 50 per certificate. This will provide significant relief, especially to pensioners in rural and remote areas.
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