EPFO Simplifies PF Withdrawal: New Rules Allow Easier Access to Funds

• EPFO has simplified PF withdrawal rules, integrating all partial withdrawals under a single framework for clarity and faster processing.
• Minimum service period for most withdrawals is now 12 months, a significant reduction from previous varying periods (2-7 years).
• Withdrawals now include both employee and employer contributions, plus interest, allowing up to 75% of the total eligible PF balance to be withdrawn.
• 100% PF withdrawal is possible in specific cases like medical treatment, education, marriage, housing needs, job loss (75% immediately, remaining 25% after 1 year), or retirement after 55.
• EPFO withholds 25% of the balance to ensure retirement security, as previous data showed many accounts had low balances at final settlement.

Why It Matters: EPFO's new rules streamline PF withdrawals, making funds more accessible while safeguarding retirement savings.