In a major move aimed at simplifying the PF withdrawal and EPFO online claim process, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has announced two important reforms. These steps will make it easier and faster for millions of EPF members to access their PF amount withdrawal benefits. It will also reduce the burden on employers.
If you’re someone who regularly checks their EPF balance or plans for a PF claim, these updates are going to make your experience smoother. Further, Let’s dive into what has changed and how it benefits both employees and employers.
What is EPFO and Why Does it Matter?
The Employee Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) manages the Employee Provident Fund (EPF), a social security scheme that helps salaried employees save for retirement. Every month, a portion of your salary is deducts and adds to your EPF account, along with a matching contribution from your employer.
You can track your employee provident fund balance using the EPFO portal, check your PF balance, and even apply for PF withdrawal online through your UAN member log in.
What's New? Key Reforms Introduced by EPFO
1. No More Uploading of Cheque Leaves or Passbook Images
Earlier, EPF members were there to upload scanned images of their cheque leaf or a copy of their bank passbook. Thus, this often led to rejections due to poor image quality or mismatched details.
Now, this requirement has been removed for all members.
- The team initially tested the change for KYC-verified users and benefited over 7.7 crore people since May 28, 2024.
- It is now available for all members who have updated their bank details linked with their Universal Account Number (UAN).
- This means faster EPF withdrawal processing and fewer claim rejections.
Importance of this Reform
Around 6 crore members will benefit immediately. So, no more paperwork or image uploads, and your PF amount withdrawal will be quicker and stress-free.
2. Employer Approval Removed for Bank Account Seeding
Until now, once a member seeded their bank account with UAN, the employer had to approved. It is digitally through a DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) or e-Sign. Moreover, this caused significant delays—on average, 13 extra days after the bank had already verified the account.
Here’s the update:
You no longer need employer approval after bank verification.
- Around 14.95 lakh requests were pending with employers due to this bottleneck.
- This reform will now allow faster bank account seeding and help members get their EPF withdrawal credits without delays.
- New or updated bank accounts can now be check using Aadhaar OTP.
Importance of this Reform
This update supports over 36,000 daily requests for bank seeding and will drastically cut down the waiting time. Further, members can now use the EPFO portal for bank account updates with minimal effort.
3. Employees’ Enrolment Scheme
EPFO has now launched the Employees’ Enrolment Scheme – 2025 to enroll workers left out between 1 July 2017 and 31 October 2025. The six months window will open from 1 Nov 2025 to 30 Apr 2026 offers relief from employee share contributions and the employer has to pay only their own share of contribution, interest, administrative charges, and a penalty of ₹ 100.
Importance of this scheme
The establishments that are already under inquiries proposed like 7A, Para 26B, or Para 8 also would come under this scheme. The scheme intends to increase EPF coverage and contribute to the Government’s vision of ensuring “Social Security for All.”
How these Changes Affects You?
Whether you’re checking your EPF balance, filing a PF claim, or initiating a pf withdrawal online, these changes will help:
- Faster claim settlements
- Reduced paperwork and hassles
- Fewer rejections due to technicalities
- No more employer dependency for bank verification
How to use these Benefits as an EPF Member?
1. Update Your KYC Details
Ensure your Aadhaar, PAN, and bank account gets update and verified in your member portal UAN.
2. Use UAN Login in EPFO Portal
Go to EPFO Member Portal and log in with your UAN login credentials to check your status, apply for pf withdrawal online, and more.
3. Track Your PF Balance Check
Use the EPFO app, portal, or even SMS services to keep track of your employee provident fund balance.
EPF vs PPF – A Quick Note
While EPF is for salaried employees with employer contributions, Public Provident Fund (PPF) is a government-backed savings scheme open to all. Moreover, both are tax-saving and long-term financial tools, but EPF has the added advantage of employer contributions and direct payroll deductions.
The Crux
The Employee Provident Fund Organisation is taking giant steps to improve the experience of its members. Overall, with latest reforms, the PF withdrawal and EPFO online claim process becomes faster, more efficient, and truly paperless.
If you haven’t updated your bank details or explored the EPFO portal, now is the time! These changes are part of a broader push for Digital India and ‘Ease of Living’ for citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I withdraw my PF amount?
You can withdraw your PF amount through the EPFO Member Portal using your UAN. Log in and go to the “Online Services” section, select “Claim (Form 31,19,10C)”, choose the withdrawal type, upload required documents if needed, and submit the claim. The amount will be credited to your bank account linked with your UAN.
Can I withdraw 100% of PF?
Yes, you can withdraw 100 percent of your PF only under specific conditions. Full withdrawal is allowed after retirement or if you have been unemployed for more than two months. However, partial withdrawal is permitted for situations like medical emergencies, education, or home loans.
Is Form 15G compulsory for PF withdrawal?
Form 15G is not compulsory for every withdrawal. It is required only if your service period is less than five years and your withdrawal amount is above ₹50,000. Submitting Form 15G helps avoid TDS deduction if your income falls below the taxable limit.
How can I transfer my PF money to my bank account?
PF transfer happens online using the Unified Member Portal. Go to the “Online Services” section and select “Transfer Request.” Verify your details, choose your previous employer or current employer for approval, and submit the request. Once approved, the amount will be transferred to your active PF account, not directly to your personal bank account.
