How to Find Your Old PF Account and Withdraw Funds Even After 15 Years: A Complete Guide
For many employees in India, the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) is a crucial part of their retirement savings. However, locating and withdrawing funds from old PF accounts, especially those older than 15 years, can be confusing. Thanks to the introduction of the Universal Account Number (UAN) in 2014, managing PF accounts has become easier, but what about accounts from before this system? This guide will walk you through how to find your old PF account and withdraw the accumulated funds, even if your PF account is more than 15 years old.
What is UAN and Why is it Important for PF Accounts?
The Universal Account Number (UAN) is a unique 12-digit number issued by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). Introduced in 2014, the UAN links all your PF accounts across different employers under one number, making it simpler to track and manage your PF balance. Before 2014, PF accounts were company-specific, which often led to multiple scattered accounts as employees changed jobs. Today, the UAN serves as the key identification for any PF-related activity.
How to Find Your Old PF Account Number Easily
Finding a PF account that is over 15 years old can seem challenging, especially if the old employer no longer exists. However, there are several proven methods to retrieve your old PF number:
1. Use EPFO’s Establishment Search
If you remember the name of your previous employer, visit the EPFO website and use the Establishment Search feature. By locating your company’s establishment code, you can contact the HR department (if still reachable) or the EPFO office to get your old PF number.
2. Know Your UAN with Registered Mobile Number
If you already have a UAN from your current or recent job, visit the EPFO portal and select Know Your UAN. Enter your registered mobile number and complete OTP verification. By providing your name, date of birth, Aadhaar, or PAN details, you might be able to link your old PF account with your existing UAN.
3. Visit Your Nearest EPFO Office
If online methods don’t work, visit the closest EPFO office in person. Bring documents such as Aadhaar, PAN card, old company name, joining and leaving dates, and any previous salary slips or PF statements. The EPFO officials can help trace your old PF account using these details.
4. File an Online Complaint for Old PF Account
You can also lodge a complaint regarding Inoperative/Old PF Account Details at epfigms.gov.in. Provide your old company details along with your Aadhaar number, and EPFO will assist in locating your account.
Yes! Even if your PF account has been inactive for more than 15 years, your funds are safe and can be withdrawn.
Important Points on PF Account Activity and Interest
Step-by-Step Guide to Withdraw PF from Your Old Account
Step 1: Link Your Old PF Account with UAN
Once you find your old PF account number, get your UAN (if you don’t already have one) and ensure your old PF accounts are linked to this UAN. This step is essential for online withdrawal.
Step 2: Withdraw PF Online
Step 3: Offline Withdrawal (If Needed)
If online withdrawal isn’t possible, you can also withdraw funds by submitting a composite claim form at your nearest EPFO office. Ensure you carry valid ID proof and bank details.
Tips to Keep Your PF Account Updated and Easy to Access
Finding and withdrawing money from a 15-year-old PF account is no longer a daunting task. By using the Universal Account Number system and EPFO’s online and offline resources, you can easily locate your old PF accounts and claim your hard-earned savings. Stay proactive about linking your accounts and updating your information to avoid complications in the future.
What is UAN and Why is it Important for PF Accounts?
The Universal Account Number (UAN) is a unique 12-digit number issued by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). Introduced in 2014, the UAN links all your PF accounts across different employers under one number, making it simpler to track and manage your PF balance. Before 2014, PF accounts were company-specific, which often led to multiple scattered accounts as employees changed jobs. Today, the UAN serves as the key identification for any PF-related activity.
How to Find Your Old PF Account Number Easily
Finding a PF account that is over 15 years old can seem challenging, especially if the old employer no longer exists. However, there are several proven methods to retrieve your old PF number:
1. Use EPFO’s Establishment Search
If you remember the name of your previous employer, visit the EPFO website and use the Establishment Search feature. By locating your company’s establishment code, you can contact the HR department (if still reachable) or the EPFO office to get your old PF number.
2. Know Your UAN with Registered Mobile Number
If you already have a UAN from your current or recent job, visit the EPFO portal and select Know Your UAN. Enter your registered mobile number and complete OTP verification. By providing your name, date of birth, Aadhaar, or PAN details, you might be able to link your old PF account with your existing UAN.
3. Visit Your Nearest EPFO Office
If online methods don’t work, visit the closest EPFO office in person. Bring documents such as Aadhaar, PAN card, old company name, joining and leaving dates, and any previous salary slips or PF statements. The EPFO officials can help trace your old PF account using these details.
4. File an Online Complaint for Old PF Account
You can also lodge a complaint regarding Inoperative/Old PF Account Details at epfigms.gov.in. Provide your old company details along with your Aadhaar number, and EPFO will assist in locating your account.
Can You Withdraw Money from a 15-Year-Old PF Account?
Yes! Even if your PF account has been inactive for more than 15 years, your funds are safe and can be withdrawn.
Important Points on PF Account Activity and Interest
- A PF account remains active for 36 months after leaving a job. After this, it is classified as inactive or inoperative.
- Interest on your PF balance continues to accumulate even if the account is inactive, right up until the age of 58 or until you withdraw the full amount.
- Even if your previous employer has shut down, your PF funds are securely held by the EPFO regional office.
Step-by-Step Guide to Withdraw PF from Your Old Account
Step 1: Link Your Old PF Account with UAN
Once you find your old PF account number, get your UAN (if you don’t already have one) and ensure your old PF accounts are linked to this UAN. This step is essential for online withdrawal.
Step 2: Withdraw PF Online
- Log in to the EPFO member portal using your UAN and password.
- Navigate to Online Services > Claim (Form 31, 19, 10C).
- Fill out the required withdrawal form based on your eligibility (partial withdrawal, final settlement, or pension withdrawal).
- Submit the claim and the amount will be transferred directly to your registered bank account.
Step 3: Offline Withdrawal (If Needed)
If online withdrawal isn’t possible, you can also withdraw funds by submitting a composite claim form at your nearest EPFO office. Ensure you carry valid ID proof and bank details.
Tips to Keep Your PF Account Updated and Easy to Access
- Always keep your UAN active and linked with your current and past PF accounts.
- Update your Aadhaar, mobile number, and bank details on the EPFO portal regularly.
- Download and save your PF passbook from the EPFO website to track your balance.
Finding and withdrawing money from a 15-year-old PF account is no longer a daunting task. By using the Universal Account Number system and EPFO’s online and offline resources, you can easily locate your old PF accounts and claim your hard-earned savings. Stay proactive about linking your accounts and updating your information to avoid complications in the future.
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