Types of EPFO Withdrawals
EPFO withdrawals come in two types – full withdrawal and partial withdrawal. Each type has specific conditions that you must meet to withdraw your EPF balance. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of withdrawals available.
Full Withdrawal
As the name suggests, full withdrawal refers to the complete withdrawal of your EPF balance. You can apply for full withdrawal when you retire, or when you reach the age of 58. To apply for full withdrawal, you need to meet the age criteria and provide certain documents. The EPFO will verify your details and process your withdrawal request.
Partial Withdrawal
Partial withdrawal, on the other hand, allows you to withdraw a portion of your EPF balance for specific reasons such as medical emergencies, home renovation, education, and marriage expenses. There are specific conditions for each type of partial withdrawal. For example, if you’re applying for a partial withdrawal for medical expenses, you need to provide medical certificates and meet other criteria specified by the EPFO. Similarly, if you’re applying for a partial withdrawal for home renovation or marriage expenses, you need to provide relevant documents to support your claim.
Differences between Full and Partial Withdrawals
While full withdrawal allows you to withdraw your entire EPF balance, partial withdrawal allows you to withdraw only a portion of your balance for specific purposes. The eligibility criteria and conditions for each type of withdrawal are different, so it’s important to check your eligibility before applying. Additionally, full withdrawals are typically done when you retire or reach the age of 58, while partial withdrawals can be done at any time, subject to specific conditions.
It’s important to note that withdrawing your EPF balance should be done only when necessary, as it’s meant to be a long-term retirement fund. However, in case of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances, EPFO withdrawals can provide a much-needed financial cushion.