PF withdrawal is a critical process for employees looking to access their hard-earned savings from the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF). Whether you’re retiring, switching jobs, or facing an emergency, understanding how to withdraw your PF is essential.
This article explains the eligibility, online and offline processes, tax implications, and rules surrounding pf withdrawal, helping you make an informed decision.
What is PF Withdrawal?
PF withdrawal refers to the act of taking out funds from your Provident Fund account, either partially or entirely, depending on your circumstances. The EPFO (Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation) governs this scheme, ensuring that employees have a secure post-retirement financial plan.
Eligibility for PF Withdrawal
To initiate a pf withdrawal, you must meet specific eligibility conditions set by the EPFO:
Full Withdrawal
- Retirement at age 58 or above
- Unemployment for more than 2 months
- Death of the account holder (claim by nominee)
Partial Withdrawal
- Marriage (self, children, siblings)
- Medical emergencies
- Home loan repayment
- Higher education
- Home renovation or construction
Note: You must have completed at least 5 years of service for most partial withdrawal cases.
PF Withdrawal Process
How to Withdraw PF Online (Using UAN Portal)
The Unified Member Portal simplifies the online withdrawal process:
Step-by-Step PF Withdrawal Online:
- Visit the EPFO UAN Portal: https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in
- Login with your UAN and password
- Go to “Online Services” > “Claim (Form-31, 19 & 10C)”
- Verify your details and enter the last 4 digits of your bank account
- Select the relevant form:
- Form 19 for final PF settlement
- Form 10C for pension withdrawal
- Form 31 for partial withdrawal
- Enter the required details and submit your claim
- Upload necessary documents (if required)
- Receive money in your bank account within 7–15 working days
Tip: Ensure your KYC is updated with Aadhaar, PAN, and bank details for faster processing.
PF Withdrawal Offline Process
If online isn’t feasible, use the offline method:
Steps for Offline Withdrawal:
- Download the required form (Form 19, 10C, or 31) from the EPFO website
- Fill the form manually
- Attach:
- PAN card
- Aadhaar card
- Canceled cheque
- Employer’s attestation (if applicable)
- Submit it at the nearest EPFO office
- Wait for 7–30 days for fund transfer
Types of PF Withdrawal Forms
| Form Name | Purpose | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Form 19 | Final settlement of PF | After retirement or job exit |
| Form 10C | Withdrawal of Pension amount | After leaving job |
| Form 31 | Partial advance from PF | Based on specific reasons |
Rules & Guidelines for PF Withdrawal
Minimum Service Period
- 5 years of continuous service needed to avoid tax on withdrawal
Tax on PF Withdrawal
- No tax if:
- Withdrawal after 5 years
- Amount less than ₹50,000 (for <5 years of service)
- TDS @10% applicable for premature withdrawals without PAN
Lock-in Period
- 2-month waiting period post resignation unless the employee is joining another company
PAN & Aadhaar Linking
- Mandatory for processing online PF withdrawal smoothly
PF Withdrawal After Resignation
Many employees ask: Can I withdraw PF after leaving my job?
Yes, you can apply for PF withdrawal after 2 months of unemployment. However, you can only withdraw pension (Form 10C) if you have less than 10 years of service. After 10 years, you can only claim a pension certificate, not the lump sum.
Common Reasons for PF Withdrawal Rejection
1. Mismatch in KYC details
Make sure your Aadhaar, PAN, and bank details match your EPF records.
2. Incomplete Documentation
Always upload correct and legible documents while applying.
3. UAN not linked to Aadhaar
Without proper linking, your application may not proceed.
Tips for Hassle-Free PF Withdrawal
- Update your KYC details regularly
- Use the online portal for faster transactions
- Check EPFO claim status using the portal or UMANG App
- Avoid manual errors in bank account numbers or IFSC codes
Tracking PF Withdrawal Status
You can check your claim status using:
- EPFO Portal
- UMANG App
- SMS (Send EPFOHO UAN to 7738299899)
- Missed Call (Give a missed call to 9966044425)
Recent Updates in PF Withdrawal Rules (2024–25)
- TDS increased to 20% if PAN not submitted
- Aadhaar authentication made stricter for fraud prevention
- Auto transfer of EPF when joining a new employer with same UAN
- Grievance redressal via the EPFiGMS portal now streamlined
Summary
PF withdrawal is a crucial financial decision that must be handled with complete understanding of the EPFO rules, form types, and eligibility. Whether you’re planning a full or partial withdrawal, always ensure your documents are in order and opt for the online method for faster results.
FAQs of PF withdrawal
How long does it take to receive the PF amount after application?
Usually, it takes 7–15 working days if all documents are in place.
Can I withdraw PF while working?
Only partial withdrawal (Form 31) is allowed for specific reasons like marriage or medical treatment.
Is PF withdrawal taxable?
Yes, if withdrawn before completing 5 years of continuous service.
What happens if I forget my UAN password?
You can reset the UAN password on the EPFO portal using your registered mobile number.
