From 2026, salaried individuals across the country are expected to get major relief related to their Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF).
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is working on simplifying its online systems to make EPF withdrawals easier, faster, and more transparent.
For many employees, the EPF withdrawal process has often been confusing and time-consuming. However, with the upcoming changes, withdrawing EPF money will become much smoother and more user-friendly.
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Major Change in EPF Withdrawal Rules in 2025
In 2025, EPFO introduced an important reform in EPF withdrawal rules. Earlier, there were 13 different reasons under which employees could withdraw their EPF money. These multiple categories often created confusion.
Now, EPFO has simplified these rules by grouping withdrawals into three clear categories:
Essential needs
Housing-related needs
Special circumstances
This change makes it easier for employees to understand when and how much EPF money they are eligible to withdraw.
When Can You Withdraw the Full EPF Amount?
Although EPF is mainly designed to provide financial security after retirement, employees can withdraw the entire EPF balance under certain conditions. Full withdrawal is allowed in the following situations:
After attaining the age of 58 years
In case of voluntary retirement
If an employee becomes permanently disabled or unable to work
When settling abroad permanently
In case of unemployment
75% of the EPF amount can be withdrawn immediately
The remaining 25% can be withdrawn after 12 months
These provisions ensure financial support during major life changes or emergencies.
Partial EPF Withdrawal Options Before Retirement
EPFO also allows partial withdrawals before retirement to meet important personal needs. Employees can access their EPF savings as per the following rules:
To buy or build a house: After completing 5 years of service
To repay a home loan: After 10 years of service
For medical treatment: No minimum service period required
For marriage or higher education: After 7 years of service
After the age of 54: Up to 90% of the EPF balance can be withdrawn before retirement
These options provide flexibility while still encouraging long-term savings.
EPF Withdrawal and Tax Rules You Must Know
Tax rules play a very important role in EPF withdrawals. If you have completed five years of continuous service, your entire EPF withdrawal becomes tax-free.
However, if you withdraw EPF before completing five years:
10% TDS is deducted if you provide your PAN
More than 34% TDS may be deducted if PAN is not provided
Therefore, completing five years of service is crucial to avoid unnecessary tax deductions
What Will Change in EPF Withdrawal by 2026?
EPFO is currently working on a fully digital and automated system. By 2026, EPFO claims that EPF funds could be credited to employees’ bank accounts within hours of completing KYC updates.
Key improvements expected include:
AI-based verification
Minimal manual intervention
Simpler online claim forms
Faster approval and settlement
These changes aim to significantly reduce delays and make the entire process more efficient.
Important Advice for Employees
Even though EPF withdrawal rules are becoming more flexible, employees should withdraw funds wisely. EPF is a long-term savings tool that benefits from compounding over time.
It is advisable to:
Opt for partial withdrawals only when necessary
Avoid frequent withdrawals that can reduce retirement savings
Ensure EPF account transfer when changing jobs to maintain continuity and tax benefits