EPF withdrawal process: A complete guide & its benefits for users | Fusion - WeRIndia

Withdrawing money from your Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) is a straightforward process, provided you meet the required conditions.

This facility is especially helpful for individuals transitioning between jobs, moving abroad, or retiring.

Additionally, female employees who resign for marriage are allowed to initiate the withdrawal process without waiting for the usual two-month period.

Here’s a simplified guide to help you navigate the EPF withdrawal process and understand its usefulness:

Fill Form 19

Begin by filling out Form 19, which is used for EPF withdrawal.

Meet the Basic Conditions

Ensure the following criteria are fulfilled before proceeding:

• UAN (Universal Account Number) is activated.
• Your mobile number is linked to Aadhaar.
• Aadhaar and a bank account are verified.
• PAN is linked (if EPF membership is under 5 years).
• The date of joining and exit from the organisation is updated by your employer.

Log in to the UAN Member Portal

• Visit the official EPFO portal.
• Enter your UAN, password, and captcha code to log in.

Choose the Correct Forms

• Select Form 19 for EPF withdrawal.
• If applicable, select Form 10C for pension withdrawal.

Verify Bank Details

Enter and verify your bank account details linked with UAN.

Upload Tax Declaration (Optional)

If required, upload Form 15G or 15H to avoid TDS deduction.

Upload Cancelled Cheque

Upload a cheque with your name, account number, and IFSC code clearly visible.

Get Aadhaar OTP

• Click on ‘Get Aadhaar OTP’.
• Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.

Submit the Claim

• Once verified, the claim is automatically submitted to EPFO.
• The case is then routed to a designated official for approval.

Receive the Funds

Upon approval, the EPF amount will be credited to your bank account.

Why This Process Is Useful for Users

• Financial Support: EPF withdrawal provides immediate access to accumulated funds during career breaks, retirement, or emergencies.
• User-Friendly: The online process ensures convenience and reduces the need for physical visits to the EPFO office.
• Faster Turnaround: If all details are correctly verified, funds are typically credited within 7–10 working days.
• Custom Scenarios: Special provisions like early withdrawal for marriage or moving abroad add flexibility.
• Transparent and Secure: OTP verification and Aadhaar linking ensure secure transactions.

Understanding and following the EPF withdrawal process can help users efficiently access their retirement savings when needed most.

With the digitalised system and simplified form-filling, employees can now claim their money with minimal hassle.

Image Credit: Aviator423, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Image Reference: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Employees%27_Provident_Fund_Organization_office_at_Silva_Cross_Road_at_Falnir_in_Mangalore.jpg