The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) is one of the most reliable retirement savings schemes for salaried employees in India. Managed by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), this fund ensures long-term financial security by requiring both the employee and employer to contribute a fixed share of the salary each month.
While EPF is primarily designed as retirement savings, the scheme also allows partial or full withdrawals under specific conditions. However, the rules are strict, and withdrawals cannot be made freely anytime.
Conditions for EPF Withdrawal
EPFO permits members to withdraw their EPF balance only in certain scenarios:
- Retirement – The entire EPF balance can be withdrawn once you reach the age of 58.
- Unemployment – If unemployed for more than two months, you can withdraw 100% of the balance. After one month, you are allowed to take out up to 75%.
- Marriage – Members can withdraw up to 50% of their contribution for marriage expenses (applicable for self, child, or sibling).
- Education – Up to 50% of one’s share can be withdrawn for higher education of self or children.
- Medical Treatment – Emergency medical needs allow partial withdrawals without any minimum service condition.
- Home Purchase/Construction – Up to 90% of the EPF balance can be accessed for buying or constructing a home, subject to service requirements.
Simple Steps to Withdraw EPF Online
With the Universal Account Number (UAN) linked to Aadhaar and bank details, EPF management has gone digital, making withdrawals quicker and easier. Here’s how you can apply online:
- Log in to the EPFO Member e-Sewa portal using your UAN and password.
- Ensure that KYC details (Aadhaar, PAN, and bank account) are updated.
- Go to the ‘Online Services’ section and select ‘Claim (Form-31, 19, 10C & 10D)’.
- Enter the last 4 digits of your bank account to verify.
- Choose the withdrawal type – whether full settlement, partial withdrawal, or pension claim.
- Submit the claim form.
Once approved, the amount is directly credited into your linked bank account.
How to Check Your EPF Balance
Before applying for withdrawal, it’s useful to know how much balance you have in your account. You can check it through:
- EPFO Portal – Log in with UAN and password to view your passbook.
- UMANG App – Install the app, sign in with UAN, and view your balance instantly.
- SMS – Send EPFOHO UAN ENG to 7738299899 from your registered mobile number.
- Missed Call – Just give a missed call to 9966044425 from your registered mobile number.
