Eligibility for Withdrawal:

Earlier, employees needed up to 7 years of service to withdraw. Now, withdrawals are allowed after 1 year of employment across all categories. This makes EPF more flexible for younger workers.

Partial Withdrawals:

Members can withdraw up to 75% of their eligible balance at any time without documentation. The remaining 25% must stay invested to safeguard retirement savings.

Full Withdrawal:

Allowed under special circumstances such as retirement, permanent disability, or unemployment beyond one year. Premature final settlement period extended to 12 months, discouraging hasty withdrawals.

Specific Needs Covered:

Withdrawals permitted for education, marriage, medical emergencies, and housing loans. Digital processes introduced for faster approvals and transparency.

EPS (Employee Pension Scheme) Changes:

Rules revised to encourage continuity, ensuring members don’t lose pension benefits by withdrawing too early.