Need assistance in choosing the right insurance plan?

Need assistance in choosing the right insurance plan?Get a call from our Expert.

Are you an NRI?

Yes
No

+91 dropdown arrow

Select Plan dropdown arrow
  • Term plans
  • Saving plans
  • Wealth plans
  • Retirement plans
  • I don't know/I need help

How to Withdraw Pension Contribution in EPF Online  

The Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS) is linked to your EPF account and provides pension benefits to eligible employees. Many employees often ask, can we withdraw pension contribution in EPF after leaving a job. In general, EPS withdrawal depends on your total years of service and age. Employees with less than 10 years of service can usually withdraw pension contribution in EPF through Form 10C, while those with longer service become eligible for monthly pension benefits instead. This article explains how to withdraw pension contribution in EPF. 

What is the employee pension scheme (EPS)?

Employee Provident Fund (EPF) or Provident Fund (PF) is a retirement planning scheme introduced by the Employee Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) of India. Under this scheme, both employer and employee make mandatory contributions towards the EPF account of the eligible employee.

It is important to note that EPF comprises three components with different objectives as follows:

  • The first component of EPF is the accumulation of funds for your retirement. In simple terms, the contributions made by you and your employer are accumulated in your PF account and are subjected to an interest rate as specified by the government of India.

  • The second part of EPF is the Employee Pension Scheme (EPS). The main objective of EPS is to generate regular pensions for eligible employees post their retirement.

  • The third and last component of EPF is the Employer Deposit Linked Insurance (EDLI), which is a life insurance cover provided by the EPFO. Under this scheme, the nominee of the member receives a lump sum amount in the event of unforeseen death of the member during his employment.

All the three components will be automatically activated once you register for your EPF.

When can you withdraw your EPS pension contribution?

According to the EPF Act, retirees can receive their pension amount after they retire by following the proper procedure. Here are the following criteria or conditions one must meet to withdraw the amount they need:

  • If you have worked for ten years and reached the age of fifty, you can take your pension early. However, you will receive a reduced pension in that case. Until you reach the age of 50, your pension rate decreases by 4% each year.

  • You can withdraw your pension contribution if you've served for less than ten years but more than six months. Generally, you can withdraw it after two months of being unemployed.

  • Some people reach retirement age at 58 with less than ten years of employment. Usually, this happens to individuals who join the organised sector after 48 years. Such employees aren't eligible for pensions. Even though EPS payments will no longer be issued monthly, you will still have the option of withdrawing the entire balance from your EPS account at once.

Documents required for EPF pension withdrawal online process

Below are the documents required for EPF pension contribution withdrawal:

  • Aadhaar Card or any other ID proof

  • Address proof

  • Revenue stamp

  • Bank account statement

Eligibility criteria for EPS pension contribution withdrawal

Before applying, it is important to understand whether you actually qualify for EPS withdrawal. Many times, employees assume the pension amount can be withdrawn in every situation, but EPS follows a separate set of conditions under EPFO rules.

Here are the main eligibility conditions you should know:

1. Service period should be less than 10 years

This is the first and most important condition. If your total EPF-linked service is below 10 years, you can generally apply for withdrawal using Form 10C.

For instance, if someone worked for 4 years in one organisation and another 3 years in a second company, the combined service is counted while checking eligibility.

2. Employees with more than 10 years of service cannot fully withdraw EPS

Worth noting, once the total eligible service crosses 10 years, the pension contribution usually cannot be withdrawn as a lump sum. Instead, the member becomes eligible for pension benefits after reaching the pensionable age.

This is exactly where many employees get confused while searching how can I withdraw my pension contribution from EPF after resignation.

3. Age plays an important role

In practice, EPS withdrawal is mostly applicable before the age of 58 years, provided other service conditions are met.

After reaching pension age, the scheme shifts from withdrawal benefits to monthly pension eligibility.

4. UAN and KYC details must be verified

Before raising any claim, make sure your UAN remains active and properly linked with:

  • Aadhaar

  • PAN

  • Bank account details

  • Mobile number

Even small mismatches in KYC records can delay approval. Many times, claims remain pending simply because bank details were not verified correctly.

5. Special cases may have separate provisions

Certain situations may be treated differently under EPFO guidelines. These may include:

  • Permanent disablement

  • Migration abroad

  • Closure of organisation

  • Long-term unemployment in eligible cases 

In such situations, additional declarations or supporting documents may be required during claim processing.

EPF withdrawal limits

There are certain limitations that apply if you wish to withdraw funds from your EPF account before retirement. In certain circumstances, you may be able to withdraw contributions from your EPF account:

Condition EPF Withdrawal Limit

Wedding Ceremony

Up to 50% of total EPF contributions have accumulated so far.

Medical Emergency

Up to 6 times your current monthly salary or the entire EPF corpus, whichever is lower.

Home Renovation

Up to 12 times your current monthly salary.

Repayment of Home Loan

Up to 90% of your EPF contributions.

Unemployment

25% of EPF contributions after 2 months of unemployment; 75% of EPF contributions after 1 month of unemployment.

Retirement

Entire EPF balance can be withdrawn.

How much EPF pension contribution can be withdrawn?

The EPF pension amount you can withdraw varies depending upon the reason for withdrawal. Below are the conditions for PF withdrawal under various scenarios:

Scenario When You Can Withdraw PF Balance Withdrawal Limit

Medical Emergency

You can withdraw your entire PF balance or 6 times your current monthly pay, whichever is lower.

Wedding Ceremony

You can withdraw 50% of the total PF balance.

Home Renovation

You can withdraw the PF balance equivalent to 12 times your salary.

Unemployment

You can withdraw 75% of your EPF balance after one month of unemployment and the remaining 25% of your balance.

Retirement

Employees can withdraw the total EPF amount after their retirement.

How to withdraw pension contribution in EPF: step-by-step process

If you are wondering how can I withdraw my pension contribution from EPF, the process is now largely online and comparatively simpler than before. Still, small mistakes in forms or KYC details can slow things down. So, it helps to follow the process carefully step by step.

Step 1: Check whether you are eligible

Start by confirming your eligibility under EPS rules. In practice, the withdrawal option through Form 10C is mainly available to employees with less than 10 years of eligible service.

Also check whether your date of exit has been updated correctly by your employer on the EPFO portal. Without this update, the claim may not proceed further.

Step 2: Verify KYC details on the UAN portal

Next, log in to the EPFO member portal and review your KYC information carefully. Make sure the following details are verified and active:

  • Aadhaar number

  • PAN details

  • Bank account information

  • Mobile number linked to Aadhaar

Many times, delays happen because the bank account name does not exactly match EPFO records.

Step 3: Go to the online claim section

Once logged in:

  1. Open the ‘Online Services’ tab

  2. Select ‘Claim (Form-31, 19 & 10C)’

  3. Verify member details shown on the screen

This is the section where you can initiate the request to withdraw pension contribution in EPF online.

Step 4: Select form 10C

Choose Form 10C specifically for EPS withdrawal benefits.

Basically, this form is used when employees want to claim the pension contribution amount or apply for a scheme certificate under EPS. Selecting the wrong form can create unnecessary processing issues later.

Step 5: Select the relevant employment record

You will then need to choose the EPF member ID linked to the company for which you want to claim the pension withdrawal.

Before moving ahead, verify details like:

  • Date of joining 

  • Date of exit

  • Total service period

  • Bank account number

Even a minor mismatch in service history can sometimes trigger additional verification.

Step 6: Upload documents if required

In most online claims, basic KYC verification is enough. However, in certain cases, EPFO may ask for supporting documents such as:

  • Bank passbook copy

  • Identity proof

  • Cancelled cheque

  • Service-related declarations

Make sure uploaded copies are clear and readable. Poor-quality scans can delay approval.

Step 7: Submit the claim online

After verifying all details, submit the claim request online.

Once submitted, you will receive a claim reference number. This helps you track the application status directly through the EPFO portal.

Step 8: Employer and EPFO verification

After submission, the request goes through verification by both the employer and the EPFO office.

They usually review:

  • Employment history 

  • Contribution records

  • Exit details

  • Eligibility conditions under EPS

In practice, this stage may take a few days depending on employer responsiveness and EPFO workload.

Step 9: Receive the pension withdrawal amount

Once the claim is approved, the EPS withdrawal amount is credited directly to your registered bank account.

Basically, if all records are updated correctly and the KYC details match, the process remains fairly smooth and straightforward for most applicants.

EPF pension withdrawal rules you should know

Here are the key withdrawal rules for your pension (EPS):

In the case of less than 6 months' service, the pension can't be withdrawn.

  • EPS can be withdrawn as a lump sum, using Form 10C, if your service is between six months and ten years.

  • Upon completing 10 years of service, you cannot withdraw your pension fund. Instead, you will receive a monthly pension starting at age 58.

  • In order to receive a monthly pension, you must submit Form 10D.

  • Even if you've completed 10 years and want a reduced pension at 50, you still need to submit Form 10D.

Conclusion

EPF pension financially secures your old age. You can withdraw the accumulated fund for your needs. You may be eligible for early, partial, or full pension withdrawal depending on your service duration and age. The process can be completed online via the Unified Member Sewa Portal or offline through EPFO offices, using Form 10C or 10D. The required documents include Aadhaar, bank details, and address proof. Understanding the eligibility criteria, withdrawal limits, and tax* implications can ensure a smooth and timely pension.

Tata AIA Life Insurance

A joint venture between Tata Sons Pvt. Ltd. and AIA Group Ltd. (AIA),  Tata AIA Life Insurance  is one of the leading life insurance providers in India. We post everything you need to know about life insurance, tax savings and a variety of lateral topics such as savings and investments in this space. You can access and read a host of different blogs, articles and pages at the Tata AIA Life Insurance Knowledge Center or get in touch with us with any queries or questions!

View all posts by Tata AIA Life Insurance

Key Takeaways

  • EPS pension withdrawal rules depend on your service period, age, and eligibility under EPFO guidelines
  • You can apply for pension withdrawal online through the EPFO portal after completing basic KYC verification
  • If eligible, the pension amount is credited directly to your bank account after claim approval.

Need assistance in choosing the right insurance plan?

Peaceful Retirement Awaits: Discover Your Perfect Pension Plan

Are you an NRI?

Yes
No

+91 dropdown arrow

Looking to buy a new insurance plan?

Our experts are happy to help you!

Are you an NRI?

Yes
No

+91

Select plan
  • Term plans
  • Saving plans
  • Retirement plans
  • Wealth plans
  • I don't know/I need help

1.

Who can withdraw EPF contributions of a deceased member?

Any legal nominee of the PF account holder can withdraw the EPF balance.

2.

What is the retirement age to withdraw EPF in India?

The retirement age to withdraw EPF in India is 55 years.

3.

Is it possible to withdraw pension contributions after leaving a job?

Yes. After leaving a job, you can withdraw pension contributions, but the amount depends on how long you worked and other applicable rules. 

4.

How many days will it take to withdraw your pension?

Online EPF withdrawals are credited within fifteen to twenty days after submitting your application.

5.

Can I make a withdrawal from the pension fund before retirement?

Yes, you just need to complete the correct application forms and submit them with all the required information. If you have been working with the same employer for a long time, different rules apply.

6.

What are the different types of EPF withdrawals available?

Early, full, and partial withdrawals are the most common types.

7.

What happens to my EPF account if I change jobs?

During a job transfer, the EPF account is carried forward, and the balance is transferred to the new employer.

8.

How long does it take to process an EPF withdrawal request?

It takes several weeks to a few months for an EPF withdrawal request to be processed.

9.

Are there penalties for early withdrawal of EPF contributions?

EPF contributions are taxable if they’re withdrawn before the time limit of 5 years. The tax implications are determined by EPF regulations and policies after five years.

10.

How does my EPF withdrawal affect my pension benefits?

If you withdraw early or completely, your EPS will be reduced.

11.

Can I withdraw my EPF balance if I have not completed 5 years of service?

It is possible to withdraw funds from the EPF balance before completing five years of service. However, taxes* will be applicable on such a withdrawn amount.

12.

How do I ensure that my EPF withdrawal is processed smoothly?

Make sure you complete all forms and meet all requirements to process EPS withdrawal smoothly.

13.

What happens to my EPF contributions after my demise?

Upon the death of an EPF holder, the balance will be transferred to the nominee or legal heirs. Thus, it is important to have a valid nomination specified in your EPF account.

14.

Can I withdraw my EPF contributions if I am on maternity leave?

Withdrawals from the EPF while on maternity leave are generally not allowed, except under certain circumstances.

 

  • Insurance cover is available under the product.

  • The products are underwritten by Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Ltd.

  • The plans are not guaranteed issuance plans, and they will be subject to the Company’s underwriting and acceptance.

  • For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions, please read the sales brochure carefully before concluding a sale.

  • This blog is for information and illustrative purposes only and does not purport to any financial or investment services and does not offer or form part of any offer or recommendation. The information is not and should not be regarded as investment advice or as a recommendation regarding any particular security or course of action.

  • Please know the associated risks and the applicable charges from your Insurance agent or the Intermediary or policy document issued by the insurance company.

  • Every effort is made to ensure that all information contained in this blog is accurate at the date of publication. However, the Tata AIA Life shall not have any liability for any damages of any kind (including but not limited to errors and omissions) whatsoever relating to this material.

  • *Income Tax benefits would be available as per the prevailing income tax laws, subject to fulfilment of conditions stipulated therein. Income Tax laws are subject to change from time to time. Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Ltd. does not assume responsibility on tax implications mentioned anywhere in this document. Please consult your own tax consultant to know the tax benefits available to you.

  • No Goods and Service Tax shall be applicable on Individual life insurance products as per prevailing laws. Tax laws are subject to amendments from time to time. If any imposition (tax or otherwise) is levied by any statutory or administrative body under the Policy, Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Limited reserves the right to claim the same from the Policyholder.