Provident Fund (PF) is a savings scheme offered by the government to help employees save a part of their salary for future needs. Both the employee and the employer contribute to this fund every month. When an employee changes a job or retires, they may want to withdraw or transfer the PF amount to their bank account.
In this blog, we will explain and guide in simple words how you can transfer your PF amount directly to your bank account. We will also guide you on the steps, documents required, and other important things you need to know.
What is Provident Fund (PF)?
The Provident Fund is basically managed by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). It is a long-term savings scheme where monthly contributions are made by both the employee and the employer. The amount earns interest and can be withdrawn fully or partially under the prescribed conditions…!
When Can You Transfer or Withdraw PF?
You can transfer or withdraw your PF amount in the following situations:
- You have changed your job and want to transfer the PF to your new employer’s account
- You have retired or are no longer working and want to withdraw the PF
- You need money for special reasons such as marriage, education, buying a house, etc. (partial withdrawal)
- You have not been employed for two months or more (full withdrawal)
Note: It is always better to transfer PF when changing jobs instead of withdrawing, to continue earning interest and build a larger fund for the future.
Pre-Requisites for PF Transfer or Withdrawal
Before you initiate the transfer or withdrawal process, make sure you have the following:
- UAN (Universal Account Number): This is a 12-digit unique number given to every employee covered under EPFO. All your PF accounts from different jobs are linked to your UAN.
- Activated UAN: Your UAN must be activated on the EPFO member portal.
- Aadhaar linked with UAN: Your Aadhaar must be linked and verified.
- Bank account details: Your bank account should be linked to your UAN and verified.
- PAN (optional): Required if the service period is less than 5 years to avoid TDS.
- Mobile number linked with Aadhaar: For the purpose of OTP verification during the online process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Transfer PF to Bank Account Online
You can easily transfer or withdraw your PF amount online through the official EPFO Unified Member Portal. Here’s the way:-
Step 1: Visit the EPFO Member Portal
Go to the EPFO Unified Portal:
https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in/memberinterface
Step 2: Login using UAN
- Enter your UAN, password and also the captcha code.
- Click on the Sign In option
Step 3: Go to Online Services
- After logging in, go to the “Online Services” tab
- Click on the “One Member – One EPF Account (Transfer Request)”
Step 4: Verify Personal and PF Account Details
- You will see your current and previous PF account details
- Check all details like name, date of joining, date of exit, etc.
- Select whether your current or previous employer will digitally approve the transfer
Step 5: Submit Transfer Request
- Fill in the required details and click on “Get OTP“
- Enter the OTP received on your Aadhaar-linked mobile number
- Submit the request
Step 6: Track the Status
You can check the current status of your PF transfer by clicking on “Track Claim Status” under the “Online Services” tab.
How to Withdraw PF Amount Online?
If you are not transferring and instead want to withdraw the PF amount directly to your bank account, follow these steps:-
Step 1: Login to the EPFO Portal
Use your UAN and password to log in at the EPFO member portal.
Step 2: Go to Online Services
Click on “Claim (Form-31, 19 & 10C)” under the “Online Services” tab.
Step 3: Verify Your KYC Details
Make sure your bank account, Aadhaar, and PAN are verified.
Step 4: Submit the Claim Form
- Click on “Proceed for Online Claim”
- Choose the type of claim (Full PF Final Settlement, Pension Withdrawal Benefit, or Partial Withdrawal)
- Fill in the details
- Get OTP on your Aadhaar-linked mobile number
- Enter OTP and submit
The amount will get credited to your linked bank account within 10-15 working days.
Documents Required for PF Transfer/Withdrawal
For online PF transfer or withdrawal, you usually do not need to upload documents, but you must have the following verified and linked:-
- UAN
- Aadhaar
- Bank account
- PAN (if applicable)
- Mobile number
For offline claims or if online verification fails, you may need:
- Form 19 (for final PF withdrawal).
- Form 10C (for pension withdrawal).
- Cancelled cheque.
- Identity proof. (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)
- Employer’s signature and stamp. (for offline form)
Points to Remember
- Make sure your exit date from the previous job is updated in the EPFO records.
- Ensure your name, date of birth, and bank details are the same in all documents.
- No employer approval is needed for withdrawal if Aadhaar and KYC are verified.
- TDS will be applicable if the withdrawal is before 5 years of continuous service and the PAN is not linked.
- You can raise a grievance if the transfer or withdrawal is delayed using the EPFO Grievance Portal.
What to Do if You Face Issues?
If you face any issue during the process, such as a mismatch in details or a delay in the amount of credit, you can:
- Contact your employer’s HR or accounts team
- Use the EPFO Grievance portal: https://epfigms.gov.in
- Call the EPFO helpdesk at 1800 118 005 (toll-free)
- Visit the nearest EPFO office with your UAN and ID proof
Conclusion
Transferring or withdrawing your Provident Fund (PF) amount is now easier than ever with the online facility provided by EPFO. Just make sure your UAN is active, Aadhaar and bank account are linked and verified, and your employment details are correct. Following the step-by-step process outlined in this blog will help you transfer your PF amount to your bank account smoothly and easily.
By staying informed and keeping your records and other data updated, you can ensure your hard-earned savings reach you without any trouble or complications.
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