EPFO Rules: Left the job at the age of 40, but did not withdraw PF money… will I get interest on it?

EPF Rules 2025: If you are employed, your PF is deducted every month. The government offers 8.25 percent interest on your EPFO ​​deposits, which is significantly better than any other secured investment. Therefore, EPF can help build a substantial retirement fund over the long term. However, if someone works only until the age of 40 or 45, then leaves their job forever, but doesn't withdraw their PF funds, will they still earn interest on their deposits? Or will interest on the deposits also stop once contributions to the EPFO ​​stop? This question is on the minds of many working people. Let's find out what the EPFO ​​rules are in this regard.

Full benefits are available until the age of 58

According to EPFO ​​rules, if a member leaves their job before the age of 58 but does not withdraw the EPF amount, their account is not deactivated and will continue to accrue interest until they reach 58. This means that even if you quit your job at the age of 40, you will continue to receive interest on your deposits for the next 18 years.

Interest for 3 years after retirement
If a person retires at the age of 58 and does not withdraw the amount immediately, they will continue to receive interest on the amount for the next three years. This means that the EPFO ​​will continue to pay interest until they reach the age of 61. After that, your account will be deactivated. However, deactivation does not mean that your money will be lost; it simply stops earning interest.

Why not withdraw prematurely?
Many people withdraw their PF balance after leaving their job, thinking that the account will be closed. Doing so deprives you of long-term interest. If you're planning to withdraw money and invest it in fixed deposits, it's best to let the money sit there and take advantage of EPFO's excellent interest rates.

Why EPF is the Safest Investment
EPF is fully supported by the government. It offers stable interest rates and tax exemptions. This makes it the most reliable option for retirement planning.

How to Withdraw Money?
First, visit the EPFO ​​website and log in with your UAN.
Update KYC.
After logging in, go to Online Services.
Click on Claim (Form-31, 19, 10C).
Verify your bank account.
Select your EPF withdrawal reason (e.g., retirement, medical, home purchase, etc.).
Verify with an OTP, then enter the OTP and submit the claim.
The money will be credited to your bank account within 7-8 days.

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