EPFO - Facilities, Structure, EPF Grievance Portal, Circulars, Latest News

Team AckoMay 13, 2024

Upon retirement, the availability of a pension depends on one's employment type. If you are ineligible for a pension, initiating savings early becomes crucial to establishing a corpus, ensuring a steady income post-retirement. The Employee Provident Fund (EPF) plays a pivotal role in this endeavour. 

Administered by the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), a government institution, EPF facilitates systematic savings during one's employment tenure. 

Contributions made by both employees and employers accumulate over time, serving as a financial reservoir after retirement. This fund offers a safety net, providing financial stability and security in the absence of a pension. By leveraging the EPF, individuals can strategically plan for their retirement, mitigating financial uncertainties and ensuring a comfortable post-work life. 

Therefore, recognising the importance of EPF and diligently contributing to it can significantly enhance one's financial well-being during retirement. Let's dive deep into the topic.

Contents

• What is EPFO?
• What are the benefits of EPFO?
  • 1. Retirement savings
  • 2. Tax benefits
  • 3. Withdrawal of funds
  • 4. Death cover
  • 5. Loan facility
  • 6. Nomination facility
  • 7. Employee pension scheme
  • 8. Emergency Fund
• EPF and its applicability
• How to register for EPFO
  • Online registration for EPFO
  • EPFO Portal Login
• How to check your EPFO balance check
• How to withdraw from your EPFO account
  • Document requirements for EPFO withdrawal
• Structure of EPFO
  • Objectives of Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO)
  • Schemes Offered Under the EPFO:
  • PF Contribution:
  • EPF Interest Rate
  • EPF Eligibility
  • Types of EPF Forms
  • EPF Joint Declaration Form and Required Documents
  • Documents to Attach with PF Joint Declaration:
  • EPFO Employee Login
  • EPFO Employer Login - Step-by-Step Guide:
  • Here are the steps to mark your exit in the Member Sewa portal:
  • Importance of updating the exit date
  • PF Withdrawal Online
• Functions of EPFO
• EPFO KYC
• Frequently asked questions
• Latest News on EPFO

What is EPFO?

EPFO stands for Employees' Provident Fund Organisation. It is an Indian government organisation that maintains and supervises the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF), a retirement savings plan for employees in the organised sector. The EPF is a mandated employee savings plan in which the employee and the employer contribute a portion of the employee's salary to the fund. The EPFO handles the EPF funds and offers services like withdrawals, funds transfers between accounts, and claim settlement.

What are the benefits of EPFO?

Here is a list of benefits offered by EPFO.

1. Retirement savings

Employees in the organised industry can save for their retirement through the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF). The fund, which the employee can withdraw after retirement, is funded by a portion of the employee's pay that is contributed by both the employer and the employee.

2. Tax benefits

Contributions to the EPF are tax deductible under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. The interest earned on the EPF is tax-free as well.

3. Withdrawal of funds

EPFO offers services such as withdrawing funds, transferring funds between accounts, and settling claims. EPFO members have the right to withdraw their savings in the event of specified situations such as retirement, resignation, or termination of work.

4. Death cover

EPFO provides its members (as per the applicable terms and conditions) with a minimum of Rs 2.5 lakhs and a maximum of Rs 7 lakh insurance protection in the event of death.

5. Loan facility

EPFO members can also borrow money from their EPF account for specific occasions such as home construction/purchase, marriage of self/daughter/son, and so on.

6. Nomination facility

EPFO also offers nomination services to its members, allowing them to name someone to receive money in the event of the member's death.

7. Employee pension scheme

A social security scheme that provides a monthly pension to employees after they retire.

8. Emergency Fund

EPF allows partial withdrawals for emergencies like medical treatment, education, or buying a house. This feature acts as a financial safety net during unforeseen events.

EPF and its applicability

The Directive Principles of State Policy within the Indian Constitution underscore the State's responsibility to ensure the welfare of its citizens, particularly in areas such as work, education, and social security. In line with this constitutional mandate, the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) was established to secure the financial well-being of employees and their dependents upon cessation of their employment.

The genesis of the EPF can be traced back to the Employees' Provident Funds (EPF) Ordinance of 1951, which subsequently evolved into the EPF Funds Act of 1952. This legislation was introduced in response to the imperative need for a robust social security program amid a changing socioeconomic landscape. The EPF Bill was presented in Parliament in 1952 and aimed at extending provident fund benefits to employees across various sectors, including factories and establishments.

The governing law for the EPF scheme, now known as the Employees' Provident Funds & Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952 (referred to as "The Act"), encompasses provisions for provident funds, pension schemes, and insurance benefits for employees. Its jurisdiction spans across India, with the notable exception of Jammu and Kashmir.

Under the EPF scheme, both employers and employees contribute a certain percentage of the employee's salary to the provident fund, ensuring a corpus for retirement benefits and financial security during unforeseen circumstances such as old age, sickness, disablement, unemployment, or other forms of undeserved want. This framework aligns with the constitutional imperative to provide for the welfare of citizens and underscores the State's commitment to fostering social and economic equity.

How to register for EPFO

Here are the steps highlighting how to register for EPFO.

Step 1: Obtain UAN

To register for EPFO in India, the first step is to obtain a Universal Account Number (UAN). The UAN is a 12-digit number assigned to each employee by the EPFO. It remains constant throughout an employee's career, regardless of how many positions they hold. It is available via the employer or on the EPFO website.

Step 2: Activation of UAN

Once you have obtained the UAN, it needs to be activated by your employer. After the activation, you will receive a SMS with your UAN and other details.

Step 3: Login to UAN Member Portal

Visit the https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in/memberinterface/ and login using your UAN and password.

Step 4: Complete KYC

KYC (Know Your Customer) details like PAN, Bank Account, Aadhaar, etc., are to be updated in the UAN member portal.

Step 5: Link with EPF account

Link your UAN with your EPF account by providing your previous EPF account details and other required information.

Step 6: Submit declaration form

After linking your UAN with your EPF account, your employer needs to submit the Declaration Form (Form 11) to the EPFO office.

Step 7: Wait for approval

Once your employer submits the Declaration Form, it will be verified by the EPFO office and your EPF account will be activated.

Online registration for EPFO

The online registration process for EPFO in India is as follows.

• Step 1: Obtain UAN online 

• Step 2: Activation of UAN

• Step 3: Login to UAN Member Portal

• Step 4: Complete KYC

• Step 5: Link with EPF Account

• Step 6: Submit Declaration Form (if required)

• Step 7: Wait for Approval

To register online, you will need your UAN and other personal details such as your name, date of birth, and PAN (Permanent Account Number)

EPFO Portal Login

Visit the EPFO Website: 

Open your web browser and go to the official EPFO website. The URL for the EPFO portal is www.epfindia.gov.in.

Select 'For Employees' or 'For Employers': 

On the EPFO homepage, you will find two main sections - one for employees and the other for employers. Choose the appropriate section based on your role.

Click on 'Member UAN/Online Services': 

Under the selected section, you will find a link or option labeled 'Member UAN/Online Services.' Click on it to proceed.

Enter UAN and Password: 

On the redirected page, you will be prompted to enter your Universal Account Number (UAN) and password. The UAN is a unique 12-digit number assigned to each EPF member to manage their EPF account effectively. Input your UAN and the associated password.

Captcha Verification: 

To enhance security, the EPFO portal may require you to complete a captcha verification. Enter the characters displayed in the captcha image correctly.

Click 'Sign In': 

After providing your UAN, and password, and completing the captcha verification, click on the 'Sign In' or 'Log In' button.

Access Your EPF Account:

Upon successful login, you will gain access to your EPF account on the portal. Depending on whether you are an employer or an employee, you can perform various actions such as viewing your UAN card, checking your profile details, reviewing your service history, and managing EPF contributions.

How to check your EPFO balance check

Here are ways to check your EPFO balance.

Through the EPFO Member e-Sewa Portal

You can check your EPF balance by logging in to the EPFO Member e-Sewa Portal using your Universal Account Number (UAN) and password. Once logged in, you can view your EPF balance and download your passbook.

Using the EPFO Umang App

You can also check your EPF balance by downloading the EPFO Umang App on your mobile phone. After installing the app, you can log in using your UAN and password to check your EPF balance and download your passbook.

SMS service

You can check your EPF balance by sending an SMS to the EPFO's official number 7738299899. The format of the SMS is 'EPFOHO UAN' where UAN is your 12 digit UAN number.

Call EPFO customer care

You can also check your EPF balance by calling the EPFO's customer care number at 011-22901406.

Note: You should have your UAN activated and linked with your EPF account in order to check your balance through the above methods.

How to withdraw from your EPFO account

Here are different ways in which you can withdraw money from your EPFO account.

1. Online withdrawal through the EPFO Member e-Sewa Portal

2. Withdrawal form through the employer

3. Withdrawal form through the EPFO office

Please visit the https://www.epfindia.gov.in/site_en/WhichClaimForm.php for more information.

You can withdraw from your EPFO account for the following reasons.

• Retirement

• Resignation from your job

• Unemployment

• Termination of employment

• Illness

• Education

• Marriage

• Home construction

• Natural disasters

Document requirements for EPFO withdrawal

To withdraw funds from your EPFO (Employees' Provident Fund Organisation) account, you must provide the following documents.

Note: The above list is indicative and may vary from the actual documents required for withdrawal.

Also read: Ayushman Bharat Health Account

Structure of EPFO

The Central Board of Trustees (EPF) is entrusted with the administration of the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) schemes, comprising the EPF, EPS, and EDLI. This tripartite board consists of representatives from the government (both central and state), employers, and employees, with the Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Government of India presiding over it.

The EPF scheme, established in 1952, provides a platform for both employers and employees to contribute a portion of the employee's salary towards a provident fund, ensuring financial security post-retirement or during periods of need. The EPS, introduced in 1995, offers a pension scheme to employees, while the EDLI, initiated in 1976, provides insurance benefits to the beneficiaries of EPF members in the event of their demise.

Supporting the Central Board of Trustees (EPF) is the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), operating under the administrative purview of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India. Together, these entities work towards the effective implementation and management of the EPF schemes, safeguarding the welfare and interests of employees across the nation.

Objectives of Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO)

Providing Financial Security: 

EPFO aims to offer financial security and stability to employees during their retirement years. It encourages systematic savings and wealth accumulation to ensure a comfortable post-retirement life.

Encouraging Long-Term Savings: 

EPF promotes long-term savings by deducting a portion of an employee's salary and contributing it to their EPF account. This disciplined approach helps individuals build a substantial retirement corpus.

Facilitating Social Security: 

EPFO contributes to social security by safeguarding the financial interests of employees. In times of need, EPF can be withdrawn for various purposes like medical emergencies, home loans, and education.

Minimizing Dependence on Family: 

EPFO aims to reduce dependence on family members during retirement or unforeseen events. By accumulating savings, individuals can maintain their financial independence and dignity.

Ensuring Timely Payments:

EPFO ensures that both employers and employees consistently make their contributions towards the EPF scheme. It monitors compliance with EPF rules and regulations, preventing delays or defaults.

Transparency and Accountability: 

EPFO operates with transparency and accountability, providing employees with access to their EPF accounts and transaction details. This transparency builds trust among stakeholders.

Promoting Employee Welfare: 

EPFO goes beyond retirement benefits. It administers schemes like the Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS) and the Employees' Deposit Linked Insurance (EDLI) Scheme to provide comprehensive welfare to employees and their families.

Supporting Housing and Healthcare Needs: 

EPFO allows partial withdrawals for essential needs such as buying a house, medical treatment, and education. This serves as a safety net for employees facing critical life events.

Digitization and Ease of Access: 

EPFO continually strives to digitize its services, making it easier for employees to access their accounts, check balances, and apply for withdrawals or transfers online.

Ensuring Compliance: 

EPFO enforces compliance with EPF-related laws and regulations among employers, ensuring that employees receive their rightful benefits and protections.

Spreading Financial Literacy: 

EPFO conducts awareness programs and initiatives to educate employees about the importance of retirement planning, financial literacy, and their rights under the EPF scheme.

Schemes Offered Under the EPFO:

Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS): 

EPS provides a pension to retired or disabled employees and their dependents. It offers financial security beyond EPF savings.

Employees' Deposit Linked Insurance (EDLI) Scheme:

EDLI provides life insurance coverage to employees. In case of an employee's demise, their family receives a lump sum amount.

Atal Pension Yojana (APY):

APY is a government scheme administered through EPFO. It aims to provide a defined pension based on contributions and ensures financial stability during retirement.

Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana (PMRPY): 

PMRPY incentivizes employers to generate new employment by bearing the employer's share of EPF contributions for eligible employees.

Employees' Provident Fund Scheme (EPFS): 

EPFS is the core scheme that manages the accumulation of provident fund contributions, enabling systematic savings for retirement.

Universal Account Number (UAN): 

UAN simplifies EPF management by centralizing multiple PF accounts, enhancing transparency, and enabling online access.

PF Contribution:

Employee's Contribution: 

Employees are required to contribute 12% of their basic salary and dearness allowance towards their EPF account. This contribution is deducted from their monthly salary at the source.

Employer's Contribution:

Employers also make a contribution of 12% of the employee's basic salary and dearness allowance to the EPF account. It's important to note that the entire 12% employer contribution goes towards the EPF, while out of the employee's 12%, 8.33% goes to the Employee Pension Scheme (EPS), subject to a maximum of Rs. 1,250 per month. This dual contribution ensures a well-rounded retirement savings plan for employees.

Voluntary Provident Fund (VPF): 

Employees have the option to contribute more than the mandated 12% of their salary to their EPF account by opting for the Voluntary Provident Fund (VPF). While the employer's contribution remains limited to 12%, employees can choose to invest a higher percentage of their salary to bolster their retirement savings.

EPF Interest Rate

The interest rate for Employee Provident Fund (EPF) is reviewed annually. In the fiscal year 2022-23, the interest rate stands at 8.15%. When the EPFO announces the interest rate for a fiscal year and that fiscal year concludes, the interest is calculated based on the monthly closing balance, culminating in an annual rate.

These key points about EPF Interest Rate are important to note:

• The 8.15% interest rate is in effect and applies to EPF deposits.

• Although interest is computed monthly, it is credited to the Employees' Provident Fund account once a year, specifically on March 31st of the relevant fiscal year.

• The interest credited is added to the balance for the next month, i.e., April's balance, and then used to calculate subsequent interest.

• If there are no contributions to an EPF account for 36 consecutive months, the account becomes dormant or inactive.

• Inactive accounts of employees who haven't reached retirement age may still earn interest.

• Retired employees do not earn interest on their inactive accounts.

• The interest collected on dormant accounts is subject to taxation at the member's applicable tax rate.

• Employees do not receive interest on contributions made by the company to the Employees' Pension Scheme. However, after the age of 58, a pension is provided from this amount.

EPF Eligibility

Employee Status: 

EPF is mandatory for employees working in organizations with 20 or more employees. However, organizations with fewer employees can also opt for EPF registration voluntarily. This means that a broader range of employees can benefit from EPF.

Salary Limit: 

EPF contributions are mandatory for employees with a basic salary and dearness allowance of up to Rs. 15,000 per month. Employees earning above this threshold can choose to continue their contributions voluntarily. This flexibility ensures that employees with varying income levels can participate.

Voluntary Coverage: 

Even if an employee does not meet the mandatory criteria, they can voluntarily join EPF to avail themselves of its benefits. This inclusiveness allows a wide range of individuals to secure their financial future through EPF. The employee contributes a minimum of 12% of salary (can contribute more voluntarily)

Age No Bar: 

There is no specific age limit for EPF eligibility. Whether an individual is in their 20s or approaching retirement, they can participate in EPF to secure their financial well-being during their golden years.

Types of EPF Forms

EPF Form 31

EPF Form 31 serves as a means for employees to make partial withdrawals from their EPF accounts, based on the purpose and years of service in the formal sector. This form can be completed through both offline and online methods via the EPF Member Portal.

EPF Form 14

EPF Form 14 is used to facilitate the payment of LIC (Life Insurance Corporation) premiums from the Provident Fund account. It allows policy premiums to be deducted from the EPF balance. To utilize this form, individuals must complete it, have it verified by their employer, and submit it to the EPF Commissioner.

EPF Form 10D

EPF Form 10D is utilized by EPFO members to access pension benefits. Eligibility for a pension is achieved after completing ten years of service in the formal sector. This form is submitted by the pensioner upon retirement.

EPF Form 10C

EPF Form 10C is employed to withdraw the pension corpus accrued in the member's EPS (Employees' Pension Scheme) account. This form can be completed online via the EPF Member Portal or in a physical format. It's important to note that the pension amount can only be withdrawn if the service period is less than ten years. This form is also used to obtain the EPS Scheme Certificate, which facilitates the transfer of EPS balances between employers.

EPF Form 13

EPF Form 13 is used for transferring an old EPF account to a new PF account when changing jobs. This form has been integrated into the Composite Claim Form, allowing for direct account transfers during job transitions.

EPF Form 19

EPF Form 19 enables EPFO members to claim the final settlement of old EPF accounts. It can be completed both online, via the EPF Member Portal, and in a physical format. Members also have the option to select their preferred remittance method (e.g., cheque, ECS, etc.) on this form.

EPF Form 20

EPF Form 20 is completed by nominees or heirs of deceased members to settle the EPF account. If the nominee is a minor or incapacitated, their guardian must fill out the form on their behalf. Funds can be directly remitted to the beneficiary's bank account or through a money order.

EPF Form 2

Form 2 is used by members to declare and nominate beneficiaries for their EPF and EPS accounts. This form can be completed multiple times and is mandatory after an employee's marriage. It is available for both online submission via the EPF Member Portal and offline submission.

EPF Form 5(IF)

This form is employed under the Employees' Deposit Linked Insurance Scheme (EDLI), 1976, to claim insurance benefits following the death of a member while in service. If the beneficiary is a minor, their guardian must complete the form on their behalf. Employer attestation is required to claim benefits, but if this isn't possible, attestation by a gazetted officer is an alternative.

EPF Form 15G

Form 15G is submitted by members to avoid tax deductions on the interest earned from their EPF. It can also be used when withdrawing EPF funds before completing five years of service if the withdrawal amount exceeds ₹50,000. For senior citizens, Form 15H is submitted instead of Form 15G.

EPF Form 5

Employers complete EPF Form 5 to provide details of new employees who are eligible for EPF for the first time. This form must be submitted by the 15th of each month. If there are no new employees, the employer should indicate "NIL" on the form.

EPF Form 11

EPF Form 11 is used by members when changing jobs to transfer EPF funds from their previous account to the new one. The UAN remains the same, but the Member ID and PF account number change.

EPF Joint Declaration Form and Required Documents

The EPF Joint Declaration Form is a crucial document that allows employees and employers to rectify errors or discrepancies in their Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) accounts. It's essential to know how to use this form and the documents you need to attach for a successful declaration.

EPF Joint Declaration Form

The EPF Joint Declaration Form is utilized when there is incorrect or outdated information in an employee's EPF account. This may include errors in personal details such as name, date of birth, or other critical information. The form serves as a mutual declaration between the employer and the employee to rectify these discrepancies.

Documents to Attach with PF Joint Declaration:

• Aadhaar Card: To verify changes in personal details such as name or date of birth, attaching a copy of your Aadhaar card can be beneficial.

• PAN Card: If there are discrepancies related to your PAN (Permanent Account Number), providing a copy of your PAN card can help authenticate the correction.

• Passport: For corrections related to passport details, including a copy of your passport may be necessary.

• Bank Account Details: If you need to update your bank account information for PF withdrawals, attaching a canceled check or a bank statement can be required.

• Birth Certificate: In cases where there are issues with your date of birth, a copy of your birth certificate can serve as supporting documentation.

• Marriage Certificate: If you're updating your marital status or changing your name due to marriage, a marriage certificate may be needed.

• Educational Certificates: For corrections in educational qualifications, providing copies of relevant educational certificates can be essential.

EPFO Employee Login

• Visit the EPFO Portal: Open your web browser and navigate to the official EPFO website at https://www.epfindia.gov.in.

• Access the 'For Employees' Section: On the EPFO homepage, locate and click on the 'For Employees' section. This section is typically found in the main menu.

• Choose 'Member UAN/Online Services': In the 'For Employees' section, you'll find an option called 'Member UAN/Online Services.' Click on it.

• Enter Your UAN and Password: You will be redirected to a login page. Here, enter your Universal Account Number (UAN) and the associated password in the provided fields.

• Complete Captcha Verification: To enhance security, you may be required to complete a captcha verification. Enter the characters displayed in the captcha image correctly.

• Click 'Sign In': After providing your UAN, password, and completing the captcha, click on the 'Sign In' or 'Log In' button.

• Access Your EPF Account: Upon successful login, you will gain access to your EPF account. You can now view your UAN card, check your profile details, review your service history, and manage EPF contributions.

EPFO Employer Login - Step-by-Step Guide:

• Visit the EPFO Portal: Open your web browser and go to the official EPFO website at https://www.epfindia.gov.in.

• Access the 'For Employers' Section: On the EPFO homepage, look for and click on the 'For Employers' section. This section is typically located in the main menu.

• Choose 'Employer e-Sewa' or 'EPFO Portal for Employers': In the 'For Employers' section, you may find options like 'Employer e-Sewa' or 'EPFO Portal for Employers.' Click on the appropriate option.

• Enter Your Establishment ID and Password: You will be redirected to the employer login page. Enter your Establishment ID and the associated password in the provided fields.

• Complete Captcha Verification: To enhance security, you may need to complete a captcha verification. Enter the characters displayed in the captcha image correctly.

• Click 'Sign In' or 'Log In': After providing your Establishment ID, password, and completing the captcha, click on the 'Sign In' or 'Log In' button.

• Access Employer Services: Once logged in, you will have access to various employer services, including managing employee EPF accounts, submitting monthly contributions, and more.

Everything You Need to Know About EPF Passbook

The EPF passbook is a statement of your EPF account that contains a comprehensive record of your contributions, your employer's contributions, interest earned, and other related transactions.

You can access your EPF passbook online through the official EPFO (Employees' Provident Fund Organisation) website. To do so, you need to register on the EPFO portal using your Universal Account Number (UAN).

Information contained in the EPF Passbook:

• The passbook contains the following crucial information:

• Your UAN (Universal Account Number).

• Your EPF account number.

• Your employer's name and establishment code.

• Monthly contributions made by both you and your employer.

• Interest earned on your EPF balance.

• Any withdrawals, advances, or loans taken from your EPF account.

• Nominee details.

• KYC (Know Your Customer) details like Aadhaar and PAN.

• Date of joining and leaving your current employment.

• Transfer-in and transfer-out details if you've switched jobs.

Here are the steps to mark your exit in the Member Sewa portal:

1. Go to the Member Sewa portal by visiting unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in/memberinterface/

2. Log in using your UAN and password.

3. Click on the 'Manage' tab and choose 'Mark exit.'

4. From the dropdown list, select the appropriate PF account number.

5. Enter the Date of Exit and provide the Reason for exit.

6. Request an OTP by clicking on the relevant option.

7. Enter the OTP received on your mobile.

8. Check the checkbox, click 'Update,' and then confirm by clicking 'OK.'

Please note that you can update the date of exit only after two months from your date of leaving the service. The system verifies this condition by checking if your employer has made any contributions in the last two months. If there have been no contributions from the employer, you can proceed to update the Date of Exit in the PF UAN portal.

Importance of updating the exit date

• Legal Compliance: It is a legal requirement to update your exit date accurately in the EPF records. Failure to do so may lead to complications or disputes in the future.

• EPF Withdrawal: To withdraw your EPF balance, the exit date needs to be correctly updated. This ensures you can access your EPF savings when needed, such as after retirement or upon changing jobs.

• Interest Calculation: The EPF interest calculation is linked to the exit date. Accurate updating ensures that you receive the correct interest on your EPF balance.

• Tax Implications: Incorrect exit dates can have tax implications. Updating it correctly ensures you meet tax regulations and avoid unnecessary tax liabilities.

• Transfer of Funds: When changing jobs, updating the exit date facilitates the smooth transfer of your EPF funds to the new employer, preventing delays or loss of funds.

• Claims Settlement: In case of any unforeseen circumstances like illness or emergencies, updating the exit date ensures that you can access your EPF funds promptly for necessary financial support.

• Retirement Planning: Accurate exit date information is essential for retirement planning, as it impacts the calculation of your EPF pension and other retirement benefits.

• Record Keeping: Maintaining updated records of your EPF exit date helps in keeping track of your financial history and ensures transparency in your financial dealings.

PF Withdrawal Online

Partial Withdrawal (Form-31):

• Purpose: Partial withdrawal is allowed for specific financial needs such as medical emergencies, home loan repayment, higher education, marriage, and home purchase.

• Eligibility: To qualify for partial withdrawal, you must have completed at least five years of continuous service. The maximum amount you can withdraw depends on the purpose and your individual circumstances.

• Process: Select 'Form-31' in the 'Claim (Form-31, 19, 10C, 10D)' section, provide the necessary details, and follow the authentication process.

Full Withdrawal (Form-19):

• Purpose: Full withdrawal, also known as final settlement, is available when an employee retires, resigns, or remains unemployed for more than two months.

• Eligibility: You can apply for full withdrawal after retirement or if you've been unemployed for at least two months.

• Process: Choose 'Form-19' in the 'Claim (Form-31, 19, 10C, 10D)' section, provide your employment details, and authenticate the request.

Pension Withdrawal (Form-10C):

• Purpose: Form-10C is used to withdraw the pension amount accumulated in your Employee Pension Scheme (EPS) account.

• Eligibility: You can apply for pension withdrawal when your service period is less than ten years. Form-10C is also used to obtain the EPS Scheme Certificate for transferring your EPS balance to a new employer.

• Process: Select 'Form-10C' in the 'Claim (Form-31, 19, 10C, 10D)' section, enter your service details, and authenticate the request.

Pension Withdrawal (Form-10D):

• Purpose: Form-10D is specifically for availing pension benefits. You become eligible for a pension after completing ten years of service.

• Eligibility: You can fill Form-10D when you retire and qualify for an employee pension.

• Process: Complete 'Form-10D' with your retirement details and submit it to claim your pension benefits.

Composite Claim Form (Aadhar):

• Purpose: This composite claim form allows you to make partial withdrawals, full withdrawals, or pension withdrawals depending on your eligibility and requirements. It combines the functionality of Form-31, Form-19, and Form-10C.

• Eligibility: Eligibility varies depending on the type of withdrawal you're applying for within the composite claim.

• Process: Fill in the composite claim form with the relevant details and follow the authentication process.

Advance PF Withdrawal (COVID-19):

• Purpose: Introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, this withdrawal allows members to access a portion of their PF balance in times of need, such as during the pandemic.

• Eligibility: Members who have contributed to their PF accounts for a specific number of years can apply for this withdrawal.

• Process: Choose 'Form-31' and indicate 'COVID-19' as the reason for withdrawal, provide necessary details, and follow the authentication process.

Functions of EPFO

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) administers provident fund, pension, and insurance schemes for registered establishments and employees across India, excluding Jammu and Kashmir. Its functions include enforcing the Act, maintaining individual accounts, settling claims, investing funds, ensuring pension payments, updating records, and implementing Bilateral Social Security Agreements. 

As one of India's largest social security organisations, EPFO prioritises simplifying operations through IT-enabled tools and digital initiatives. The Central Board of Trustees governs its decisions. Acting as both administrator and service provider, EPFO offers online access to information and services via its website.

EPFO KYC

To update KYC details on the EPFO e-Sewa portal, employees must log in, access "Manage KYC," choose the document type (e.g., PAN, Aadhaar), input document details and member name, and if necessary, update expiry dates. After saving and submitting changes, employers review and approve them. Upon approval, employees receive an SMS confirmation. This straightforward process ensures seamless KYC updates on the EPFO website.

Frequently asked questions

Here are some common questions about EPF and EPFO.

Who is eligible to contribute to the EPF?

Indian employees who have completed 18 years of age, and draw at least Rs. 15 thousand per month from an organised sector are eligible to contribute to EPF.

How much do employees and employers have to contribute to the PF?

Employees can contribute 10% to 12% of their salary to the PF account.

What is the role of the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) in managing the PF?

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is responsible for the administration of the EPFO.

How do I resolve disputes regarding my PF account?

You can contact the PF authorities by calling the toll-free number 1800118005. Alternatively, you can send an email to the following address.

• For employees

[email protected]

• For employers

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Latest News on EPFO

Here are the latest news related to EPFO

Date: 28-Feb-2023 : EPFO’s deadline to file higher pension extended

As mandated by the Supreme Court, the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has increased the deadline for getting higher pensions by 60 days. Now the new deadline is May 3, 2023.

Currently, the official EPFO website to get a higher pension is not properly functional. However, you can access the online link via EPFO’s unified portal. EPFO is scheduled to activate this link soon and give additional information on the application process and pension calculations.

EPFO introduces new guidelines for higher pensions : Date: 22/02/2023

The Employee Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has created a new process that permits subscribers to apply for greater pensions from their Employees' Pension Plan (EPS). The EPFO has issued new rules as per the November 4, 2022, Supreme Court ruling.

Employees can now go beyond the Rs. 15,000 per month cap (the maximum pensionable income), from which employers subtract 8.33 percent of the 'basic salary' for pension purposes under EPS. An employee and an employer can enrol jointly and ask the EPFO to withhold 8.33 percent of the greater monthly basic income, ensuring a larger pension accumulation throughout the employee’s career.

The deadline for applying for a higher pension under EPS is March 3, 2023. As per the directive, as of September 1, 2014, existing employees and EPS members can claim a higher pension based on actual pay over the authorised ceiling in the EPS of 1995.

• TDS will be reduced to 20% if the EPF account is not seeded with the account holder's PAN card by April 1, 2023, or the start of the fiscal year 2024.

EPFO launches Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0 project - 30-Jan-2023.

The Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0 project encourages EPFO members to visit EPFO offices to resolve grievances. EPFO will reach out to members through the Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0 project, enhancing access and exposure to EPFO in all the Indian districts. The project's purpose is to reach out to all regions on a monthly basis. Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0 will be held on the 27th of every month beginning in January 2023. If the 27th of the month is a holiday, the meeting will be held on the next working day.

EPF passbook online service restored - 19th Jan 2023

After being unavailable for at least a week, the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) passbook online service is now restored, allowing members to view their balance and interest credit data.

Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation announces new online services for pensioners - 17th Jan 2023

New online services are being introduced to allow members to avail them from the comfort of their own homes. The newly introduced initiative will help pensioners to keep track of their pensions. Here are some services announced by the EPFO.

• Pension passbook can be viewed online.

• Online pension claim submission (through EPFO member portal/UMANG app).

• Digital life certificate submission from home via mobile app.

• Pension payment order (PPO) download from Digi-locker.

Sources:

• https://www.epfindia.gov.in/site_docs/PDFs/Downloads_PDFs/EDLI_1976.pdf

• https://www.epfindia.gov.in/site_en/index.php

• https://www.epfindia.gov.in/site_docs/PDFs/MiscPDFs/ContributionRate.pdf

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet, and is subject to changes.

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