The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is bringing a digital boost for millions of subscribers. Starting April 2026, EPF members will be able to withdraw their provident fund (PF) directly to their bank accounts through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). This move aims to make withdrawals faster, reduce paperwork, and simplify the process for the organisation’s eight crore members.
Currently, subscribers must submit withdrawal claims online and wait for manual processing, which can take several days. With the UPI facility, eligible funds will transfer almost instantly once the request is made, using the member’s UPI PIN. EPFO is currently finalizing technical and software preparations to ensure a smooth rollout.
Under this new system, a minimum balance will remain in the PF account to continue earning interest, while the rest can be withdrawn via UPI. Once credited to their bank accounts, members can use the funds for digital payments or cash withdrawals, making the process more seamless and convenient.
This digital initiative builds on previous reforms by EPFO. The organisation had already increased the auto‑settlement limit from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, allowing many claims to be settled electronically within three days. The UPI option goes further by removing the need to even submit a traditional claim for eligible withdrawals.
Additionally, the EPFO has simplified partial withdrawal rules. Earlier, 13 different categories governed PF withdrawals, which often confused subscribers. These have now been consolidated into three broad purposes: Essential Needs (such as illness, education, marriage), Housing Needs, and Special Circumstances. Members can withdraw up to 100% of their eligible balance for these purposes while maintaining the minimum balance required to continue earning interest.
The UPI-enabled facility is part of EPFO’s broader digital push, aiming to provide a modern, frictionless experience for members. By making PF withdrawals quick, secure, and fully digital, the organisation is aligning its services with contemporary banking trends and easing access to retirement savings for millions of Indians.
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