The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) is a savings scheme that helps employees build a retirement fund. Both the employee and the employer contribute a fixed amount every month to the EPF account. Over the years, this money grows with interest, and you can use it after retirement or for certain important needs during your working life.
Recently, the government has made an important change to the EPF withdrawal rules. This change will help employees get more money from their EPF account for medical treatment when they or their family members are facing health problems. Let’s understand what has changed and how it will benefit you.
What Has Changed in EPF Withdrawal Rules?
EPF Withdrawal Rules Changed: Now Get Higher Withdrawal Limit for Medical Treatment Earlier, the rules allowed you to withdraw a limited amount from your EPF account for medical reasons. Now, the withdrawal limit for medical treatment has been increased. Before this change, the maximum amount you could withdraw was six times your monthly salary or the total employee’s share in EPF, whichever was lower.
Now, under the new rules, you can withdraw up to your full employee share plus interest for medical treatment. This means you can get more money in emergencies, without depending on loans or outside help.
Who Can Benefit from This Rule Change?
EPF Withdrawal Rules Changed: Now Get Higher Withdrawal Limit for Medical Treatment This new rule is meant to help employees during serious health situations. You can withdraw this amount for:
- Your own medical treatment
- Medical treatment of your spouse
- Treatment for children
- Treatment for dependent parents
This is especially helpful for families where medical bills can become very high due to hospital charges, surgery, or long-term treatments.
When Can You Use EPF for Medical Treatment?
You can use your EPF funds for medical purposes in cases like:
- Hospitalization for more than one month
- Major surgery
- Treatment of serious illness like cancer, heart problems, kidney failure, tuberculosis, paralysis, etc.
- Long-term treatment in a recognized hospital
The withdrawal is allowed without the condition of completing a minimum number of years in service, which means even if you have recently joined a job, you can still use this benefit.
How to Apply for EPF Withdrawal for Medical Treatment
The process is simple and can be done online or offline.
Online Method:
- Log in to the UAN member portal (https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in).
- Go to “Online Services” and select “Claim (Form-31, 19 & 10C)”.
- Choose ‘Medical Treatment’ as the reason for withdrawal.
- Enter the required details and upload documents like medical certificates or hospital reports.
- Submit the claim for processing.
Offline Method:
- Get the EPF withdrawal form (Form 31).
- Fill in the required details and attach the necessary medical documents.
- Submit the form to your employer or directly to the EPF office.
Once approved, the money will be credited to your bank account linked with your EPF.
Documents Required
When applying for withdrawal for medical purposes, you may need:
- Medical certificate from a registered doctor or hospital
- Hospital admission papers (if applicable)
- Member’s UAN (Universal Account Number)
- Bank account details linked with UAN
- Identity proof
Benefits of the New Rule
- Higher Withdrawal Limit – You can now withdraw your full employee share with interest, which is much more than before.
- Immediate Help in Emergencies – Medical emergencies need quick money, and this rule makes it easier to get funds without waiting too long.
- No Minimum Service Requirement – Even new employees can get this benefit.
- Covers Family Members – You can use it not just for yourself but also for spouse, children, and dependent parents.
Important Points to Remember
- EPF is your long-term savings, so withdraw only in genuine need.
- Make sure your KYC details (Aadhaar, PAN, bank account) are updated in the EPF portal for smooth processing.
- Keep medical bills and reports safe as they may be required for verification.
- The withdrawal process usually takes 5–15 working days if all documents are correct.
Conclusion
The new EPF withdrawal rules for medical treatment are a big relief for employees. Health emergencies can come at any time, and medical expenses are often very high. With this higher withdrawal limit, you can now get more financial help from your own savings in EPF, without taking loans or falling into debt. This change shows that the government is focusing on employee welfare, making sure that the EPF scheme not only supports you after retirement but also during urgent times in life. If you or your family face a medical crisis, this updated rule can provide quick and reliable financial support.
