Frequently Asked Questions
How can I raise a claim for PF withdrawal online?
To claim your PF withdrawal online:
Log in to the EPFO Member Portal using your UAN and password.
Verify KYC details under the ‘Manage’ section.
Navigate to ‘Online Services’ > ‘Claim (Form-31, 19 & 10C)’.
Enter your bank details and verify them.
Accept the declaration and proceed with the claim.
Choose the withdrawal type, fill in the necessary details, and submit using Aadhaar OTP
Ensure your UAN is linked with Aadhaar, PAN, and your bank account for a seamless process.
Can I withdraw 100% of my PF amount?
Yes, you can withdraw your entire PF balance under specific conditions:
- Retirement from service.
- Unemployment for more than two months.
- Permanent settlement abroad.
However, if you’ve completed less than 10 years of service, you can withdraw both EPF and EPS amounts. Beyond 10 years, only the EPF portion is withdrawable; EPS becomes a pension payable upon retirement
How long does it take to receive PF withdrawal after applying?
Typically, PF withdrawal claims are settled within 20 days from the date of submission. However, processing times can vary depending on the EPFO office handling the claim and the completeness of your application.
Do I need employer approval for online PF withdrawal?
No, if your UAN is linked with Aadhaar and your KYC details are verified, you can withdraw your PF online without employer approval. The EPFO’s Aadhaar-based verification system facilitates this streamlined process.
What documents are required for PF withdrawal?
For online PF withdrawal, ensure you have:
Universal Account Number (UAN)
Aadhaar Card linked to UAN
PAN Card
Bank account details linked to UAN
Cancelled cheque with your name printed
These documents facilitate verification and ensure the funds are credited to the correct account.
What is the waiting period for PF withdrawal after resignation?
After leaving your job, you can apply to withdraw your entire PF amount once you’ve been unemployed for two months (60 days). During the first month, you’re allowed to withdraw up to 75% of your total PF balance. After completing the full two-month unemployment period, you can withdraw 100%. This rule ensures that the funds are only accessed when you’re genuinely unemployed and not working elsewhere.
Can I withdraw PF while still employed?
Yes, partial withdrawals from your PF account are permitted while still employed, but only under specific circumstances such as:
Medical emergencies
Purchase or construction of a house
Marriage or education of self or children
These withdrawals are subject to certain conditions and limits as specified by the EPFO.
Read our blog on the condition and limits: https://finright.in/blogs/pf-withdrawal-how-to-withdraw-entire-pf-balance/
How to check PF withdrawal status online?
To check your PF withdrawal status online:
Log in to the EPFO Member Portal using your UAN and password.
Navigate to ‘Online Services’ > ‘Track Claim Status’.
Your claim status will be displayed on the screen.
You can also use the UMANG App:
Open the app and select EPFO Services.
Click on ‘Track Claim’ to view your withdrawal status.
✅ Make sure your mobile number is linked to your UAN to access these services.
Can NRIs withdraw their PF amount online?
Yes, NRIs can withdraw their Provident Fund (PF) amount online through the EPFO Member Portal or the UMANG app.
To proceed:
Log in to the EPFO Member Portal using your UAN and password.
Ensure your UAN is linked with your Aadhaar, PAN, and an Indian bank account (preferably NRO).
Navigate to ‘Online Services’ > ‘Claim (Form-31, 19 & 10C)’.
Select ‘Abroad Settlement’ as the reason for withdrawal.
Upload the necessary documents:
Passport copy
Valid visa
Cancelled cheque of your NRO account
✅ Submit the claim using Aadhaar-based OTP verification.
Alternatively, you can use the UMANG app to initiate the process under EPFO Services > Claim.
Are PF withdrawals taxable for NRIs?
Yes, PF withdrawals are taxable for NRIs under certain conditions:
🔸 If withdrawn before completing 5 years of continuous service:
10% TDS is deducted if PAN is linked with the UAN.
30% TDS is deducted if PAN is not linked.
🔸 If withdrawn after 5 years of continuous service:
No TDS is deducted.
However, the interest earned after leaving your job (i.e., after cessation of employment) is still taxable under Indian tax laws.
📌 NRIs must also check if the PF amount is taxable in their country of residence to avoid double taxation. Using Form 15CA/CB may be required for large withdrawals (typically above ₹5 lakh).
Which bank account should NRIs use for PF withdrawal?
NRIs should use a Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) bank account for PF withdrawals. The EPFO mandates that the bank account linked to your UAN must be an Indian account, and NRO accounts are suitable for this purpose
What is Form 13 in PF transfer?
Form 13 is the official document used to transfer your Provident Fund (PF) account from a previous employer to your current one. It ensures the consolidation of your PF contributions under a single Universal Account Number (UAN), maintaining continuity in your employment history and benefits
How to merge multiple PF accounts?
If you have multiple PF accounts due to job changes, it’s important to merge them to maintain a single unified PF history.
🔹 Online Method (Recommended):
Log in to the EPFO Member Portal using your UAN and password.
Go to ‘Online Services’ > ‘One Member – One EPF Account (Transfer Request)’.
Enter details of your previous PF accounts.
Select the employer for attestation and submit the request.
✅ Merging ensures your PF balance and service history are consolidated — making future withdrawals, pension, and interest tracking easier.
How to check PF balance without UAN
While UAN is the primary method to check PF balance, you can also
- Give a missed call to 9966044425 from your registered mobile number.
- SMS: Send an SMS in the format EPFOHO UAN ENG to 7738299899.
- Use Check My PF for a Detailed Report
Don’t have your UAN or need a more detailed view?
Check My PF can help you get a full snapshot of:
✔️ Total balance
✔️ Withdrawable amount
✔️ Any PF issues
Just enter your mobile number and verify with an OTP — it’s that simple!
Note: These methods require your mobile number to be registered with the EPFO.
