Navigating the Employee Provident Fund (EPF) claim process successfully can provide financial relief in a timely manner. With a little attention to detail, your claim can be processed without a hitch, allowing you to access your funds with ease.
Submitting your EPF claim online offers convenience and speed, but it also requires precision. Many claims are rejected due to avoidable errors.
How to check online EPF claim rejection reasons
1. To check your EPF claim status, log in to the EPF member portal and navigate to the 'Online Services' tab. Select 'Track Claim Status' to review the status and any remarks provided for your claim.
2. You might receive an SMS update from EPFO with the status of your claim.
3. You can also use the UMANG app to check the claim status by linking your UAN.
EPF claim rejection reasons
- Incorrect documentation: Ensure all documents are up to date and match your EPF account details.
- Incomplete KYC: Verify that your Aadhaar, PAN and bank details are correctly updated in the EPF portal.
- Non-compliance: Non-compliance with EPF rules, such as incorrect forms or missing documents, can result in rejections.
- Inaccurate bank details: Inaccurate bank details, like mismatched account numbers or IFSCs, are common rejection reasons. Double-check your bank information.
- Lack of document linking: Lack of linking between your UAN, Aadhaar and bank account can prevent claim processing.
- Form 10C rejection: Form 10C is the form submitted to EPFO for withdrawal of your pension. It can be rejected if filled incorrectly or if the required service period is not met.
How to apply again when an EPF claim gets rejected
- Understand eligibility: Review the eligibility criteria for EPF withdrawals. Ensure you meet all the requirements before reapplying.
- Right the wrongs: Identify and correct the errors that led to the rejection. Whether it’s updating KYC details, correcting documentation or ensuring compliance, make the necessary changes.
- Seek professional assistance: If you’re unsure about the process, seek assistance from a professional or consult with your HR department for guidance.
- Raise a claim on time: Timing is crucial. Submit your claim promptly after correcting the issues to avoid further delays.
Conclusion
By following the aformentioned guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of your EPF claim being rejected and ensure a quicker, hassle-free experience.
For a more comprehensive approach to retirement planning, consider diversifying your investments. Products like the National Pension System (NPS) offer additional security and flexibility. With NPS Account, you benefit from features such as secure income for old age, a choice of investment models and attractive tax benefits, helping you build a robust retirement corpus effortlessly.
Also Read: Know the difference between EPF and NPS
FAQs
How would you come to know when the PF claim is approved?
You will be notified via SMS and email when your PF claim is approved. You can also check the status on the EPF portal or through the UMANG app.
What do they mean by field office rejection?
Field office rejection means that the local EPFO office has rejected the claim due to issues identified during the processing of your claim.
How long does it take to process an online EPF claim application?
Typically, an online EPF claim takes around 20 days to process. However, it can vary based on the accuracy of the submitted information and the workload of the EPFO.
Do you need your employer’s approval before raising a claim?
Yes, for certain types of EPF withdrawals, employer approval is required. Ensure your employer has approved your claim request before submission.
Disclaimer: This article is for information purpose only. The views expressed in this article are personal and do not necessarily constitute the views of Axis Bank Ltd. and its employees. Axis Bank Ltd. and/or the author shall not be responsible for any direct / indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.