PIB Fact Check Clarifies Misleading Claims About New EPFO Rules

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has issued a clarification following misleading claims circulating on social media regarding the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) rules.

Social media user @SaketGokhale claimed in an X post that employees cannot withdraw 25% of their EPF balance, which will stay locked until retirement. PIB has categorically stated that this claim is misleading.

According to PIB, employees can withdraw their entire EPF balance, including the minimum 25%, under specific conditions. These include:

• Retirement after attaining 55 years of age
• Permanent disability
• Retrenchment or voluntary retirement
• Leaving India permanently

Provisions for Unemployed Individuals

In addition, simplified rules now allow full withdrawal of the EPF balance after 12 months of continuous unemployment. The government has introduced this measure to provide financial support during periods without employment and to ensure that employees can access their funds when needed.

PIB emphasised that employees should refer to official EPFO notifications and guidelines before acting on social media claims.

Taking to X, the PIB Fact Check posted, “An X post by @SaketGokhale is making several claims regarding the new EPFO rules. These claims are MISLEADING! Here’s a point-by-point clarification on these claims Claim 1: Of your EPF balance, 25% cannot be withdrawn and will remain LOCKED IN for your entire career until you retire. #PIBFactCheck Full withdrawal of the entire PF balance (including the minimum balance of 25%) is allowed under a few conditions, like retirement after attaining 55 years of service, permanent disability, retrenchment, voluntary retirement, or leaving India permanently, etc. Simplified provisions allow full withdrawal of the entire PF balance (including the minimum balance of 25%) after 12 months of continuous unemployment.”

This clarification aims to dispel rumours and guide employees in making informed decisions regarding their PF accounts.

PIB urges stakeholders to consult the EPFO’s official website or contact the organisation directly for any specific queries related to EPF withdrawals.

Also Read: BSNL And TRAI Warn Public Against Fake KYC Suspension Notices