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5 Easy Steps to Check PF Balance & Withdraw Money Online
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) is one of the most important savings schemes for salaried employees in India. Managed by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), it helps employees build a retirement corpus with contributions from both the employee and employer. However, many people struggle with how to check their PF balance online or withdraw PF money when needed.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through 5 simple steps to track your PF balance and withdraw funds without visiting an EPFO office. Whether you need money for an emergency, retirement, or just want to monitor your savings, this guide has you covered.
Why is Checking Your PF Balance Important?
- Ensures employer compliance – Verifies that your employer is depositing the correct amount every month.
- Financial planning – Helps you estimate your retirement savings and plan future investments.
- Interest tracking – EPF offers tax-free interest (currently 8.15%), so monitoring growth is crucial.
- Early withdrawals – Knowing your balance helps in case you need a partial PF withdrawal for emergencies.
How to Check Your PF Balance Online (3 Methods)
1. Using the EPFO Portal (Most Reliable Method)
The EPFO Unified Member Portal is the official platform to check your PF balance, download your passbook, and track transactions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Check PF Balance via EPFO Portal:
- Visit the EPFO Member Portal – Go to https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in.
- Login with UAN & Password – Enter your Universal Account Number (UAN) and password.
- Don’t have a password? Click on “Forgot Password” and reset it via OTP.
- Navigate to ‘View Passbook’ – Under the “Services” tab, select “View Passbook”.
- Check Your PF Balance – Your EPF balance, employer contributions, and interest earned will be displayed.
- You can also download your passbook in PDF format for future reference.
📌 Pro Tip:
- Ensure your UAN is activated (ask your employer if unsure).
- Link your Aadhaar and bank details to avoid login issues.
2. Checking PF Balance via SMS (No Internet Needed)
If you don’t have internet access, you can check your PF balance via SMS.
How to Check PF Balance via SMS:
- Send an SMS in this format:
EPFOHO UAN ENGto 7738299899
(Replace “ENG” with your preferred language: HIN, TAM, etc.) - You’ll receive an SMS with your latest PF balance.
⚠️ Note:
- Your UAN must be registered with EPFO for this service.
- Mobile number should be linked to your UAN.
3. Using the UMANG App (Mobile-Friendly Method)
The UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New Governance) app allows you to check your PF balance anytime, anywhere.
Steps to Check PF Balance on UMANG App:
- Download UMANG App – Available on Google Play Store & Apple App Store.
- Register/Login – Use your mobile number and OTP.
- Search for “EPFO” – Go to “Services” and select “Employee Centric Services”.
- Click on “View Passbook” – Enter your UAN and OTP to see your balance.
✅ Advantages of UMANG App:
- No need to remember passwords.
- Check balance even without a computer.
- Access other EPF services like claim status tracking.
How to Withdraw PF Money Online (Complete Process)
Withdrawing your PF money is now 100% online, eliminating the need for physical forms or employer approval in most cases.
Who Can Withdraw PF Money?
| Scenario | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Full Withdrawal | After retirement (58 years) or unemployed for 2+ months. |
| Partial Withdrawal | Medical emergencies, home loan repayment, marriage, education, or after 5 years of service. |
| Pension Withdrawal (EPS) | Only if the total service is less than 10 years. |
Documents Required for PF Withdrawal
- Aadhaar Card (Linked with UAN)
- PAN Card (Mandatory for withdrawals above ₹50,000)
- Bank Account Details (IFSC code & account number linked with UAN)
- Cancelled Cheque/Passbook Copy (For verification)
Step-by-Step Guide to Withdraw PF Online
- Log in to EPFO Member Portal – Visit https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in.
- Go to “Online Services” → “Claim (Form-31, 19, 10C & 10D)”
- Form 19 – For final PF Withdrawal.
- Form 31- For partial PF withdrawal.
- Form 10C- For EPS withdrawal.
- Verify Bank Details – Ensure your bank account is linked with UAN (KYC must be complete).
- Select Withdrawal Reason – Choose from options like medical treatment, home loan, marriage, etc.
- Enter Required Details – Amount, personal details, and employment details (if applicable).
- Upload Documents (If needed) – Scanned copies of Aadhaar, PAN, bank proof.
- Submit Claim – You’ll receive an acknowledgment number for tracking.
⏳ Processing Time:
- Usually takes 10-15 working days.
- You can track status via EPFO Portal/SMS.
💰 When Will You Get the Money?
- If all documents are correct, the amount is credited directly to your bank account.
- For rejected claims, EPFO will notify you via SMS/email.
Common Issues & Solutions While Checking/Withdrawing PF
1. UAN Not Activated?
- Solution: Contact your employer or visit the nearest EPFO office with your ID proof.
2. Aadhaar Not Linked with UAN?
- Solution: Link it via:
- EPFO Portal → “KYC Update” section.
- UMANG App → “EPFO Services” → “e-KYC”.
3. Claim Rejected Due to Incorrect Details?
- Solution:
- Reapply with correct bank details/Aadhaar.
- Visit EPFO Grievance Portal: https://epfigms.gov.in.
4. Employer Not Responding to Withdrawal Request?
- Solution: File a complaint via EPFiGMS or escalate to Regional EPFO Commissioner.
FAQs on PF Balance & Withdrawal
Can I check my PF balance without UAN?
❌ No, UAN is mandatory. If you don’t have it, ask your employer.
What is the current EPF interest rate?
✅ 8.15% (2023-24). Interest is calculated monthly but credited yearly.
Can I withdraw PF while still employed?
✅ Yes, but only partial withdrawals for specific reasons (medical, home loan, etc.).
Is PF withdrawal taxable?
Tax-free if withdrawn after 5 years.
How much PF can I withdraw for a home loan?
✅ Up to 90% of your PF balance (if employed for 5+ years).
Conclusion
Managing your PF balance and withdrawing money online is now easier than ever. By following this guide, you can:
✔ Check your PF balance in minutes (via SMS, EPFO portal, or UMANG app).
✔ Withdraw funds without employer approval for emergencies.
✔ Avoid common issues like UAN activation or claim rejection.
🔗 For official updates, visit EPFO’s website: https://www.epfindia.gov.in
