Old PF Account Withdrawal Guide: How to Trace and Claim Your EPF Money Even After 15 Years

Kokila Chokkanathan
For salaried employees in India, the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) is a crucial long-term savings and retirement instrument. Over the course of a career, many employees change jobs multiple times, often leaving behind old PF accounts that remain linked to previous employers. These inactive accounts continue to accumulate interest, so it’s important to track and withdraw your money even years later.

Why It’s Important to Claim Old PF Accounts

Earns Interest: EPF balances continue to earn interest annually, so your savings grow even if the account is inactive.

Consolidate Funds: Claiming old PF accounts or transferring them to your current account helps avoid multiple small accounts and simplifies management.

Financial Security: Accessing the funds can provide a financial boost during emergencies or for long-term goals.

How to Trace Your Old PF Account

1. Using UAN (Universal Account Number)

  • Every EPF member has a UAN.
  • Log in to the EPF portal with your UAN and check for previous PF accounts linked to it.
  • If an account is not linked, you can request your previous employer to link it to your UAN.
2. EPFO Portal Search

  • Visit the EPFO member portal and use the “Know Your PF Account” option.
  • Enter your personal details such as name, date of birth, and mobile number to retrieve old accounts.
3. Contact Previous Employers

  • Reach out to the HR or payroll department of your previous employers.
  • Request the PF account number or ask them to transfer the funds to your current account.
How to Withdraw Old PF Funds

Online through EPF Portal:

Log in with your UAN.

Select “Claim (Form-31, 19, 10C)” depending on the purpose.

Submit the withdrawal request and verify your bank account linked with UAN.

Offline through Employer:

Submit the PF withdrawal form to your previous employer.

The employer will forward the request to EPFO for processing.

⚠️ Note: EPF accounts can be withdrawn even after 15 years, but it’s best to keep your KYC updated (Aadhaar, PAN, bank details) to avoid delays.

Tips for Old PF Accounts

  • Consolidate multiple PF accounts by transferring them to your current employer’s account.
  • Regularly check UAN portal to ensure all accounts are linked.
  • Keep KYC documents updated to make withdrawals smoother.
  • Avoid dormant accounts as they can complicate future claims.
Conclusion

Even if you’ve switched jobs multiple times and left old PF accounts behind, it’s never too late to claim your EPF money. With online portals, UAN, and employer assistance, tracking and withdrawing funds—even after 15 years—is now straightforward. Consolidating accounts ensures better financial management and uninterrupted interest accumulation, making your retirement savings more secure.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

For more interesting updates click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel

Find Out More:

EPF

Related Articles: