EPFO Update: When Will PF Withdrawals via ATM and UPI Begin? Union Minister Shares Major Timeline

A major convenience upgrade is on the way for Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) subscribers across India. Soon, employees may no longer need to file lengthy online or offline claims to access their Provident Fund (PF) savings. The government is preparing to allow PF withdrawals directly through ATMs and UPI platforms, a move expected to significantly simplify and speed up access to retirement funds. The timeline for rolling out this long-awaited facility has now been revealed by a Union Minister, bringing clarity to crores of salaried employees.

PF Withdrawals Set to Become Faster and Simpler

At present, withdrawing money from a PF account involves submitting an online or offline claim, followed by verification and approval by EPFO. While the digital process has improved over the years, many subscribers still face delays due to documentation issues, technical errors, or administrative backlogs. The upcoming ATM and UPI-based withdrawal system aims to eliminate these hurdles by offering instant and hassle-free access to PF funds.

According to official statements, this new system is currently in its final stages of preparation. Once implemented, employees will be able to withdraw eligible PF amounts in a manner similar to regular bank transactions, without waiting days or weeks for approval.

Union Labour Minister Confirms Rollout Timeline

Union Minister for Labour and Employment, Mansukh Mandaviya, shared key details about the initiative during the India @2047: Entrepreneurship Conclave organised by ABP Network. He emphasized that the government’s priority is to make PF access faster, smoother, and more employee-friendly.

The minister stated that PF money belongs to employees and should be available to them without unnecessary obstacles. As per his remarks, the ATM and UPI-based PF withdrawal facility could be launched before March 2026, subject to final technical and regulatory clearances.

How PF Withdrawal Works Currently

Currently, EPFO subscribers must submit a withdrawal claim either through the EPFO member portal or via offline forms. After submission, the claim goes through verification by the employer and EPFO officials before the amount is credited to the linked bank account.

Although the process is largely digital, delays can occur due to incomplete KYC, employer verification issues, or system-related problems. These delays are especially challenging for employees who urgently need funds.

What Will Change Under the New ATM and UPI System

The proposed system is designed to directly link PF accounts with subscribers’ bank accounts, which are already connected through Aadhaar and UAN (Universal Account Number). Once active, EPFO members may be issued a dedicated debit card or provided access through existing ATM and UPI networks.

Under this setup:

• PF withdrawals could be initiated instantly.

• Employees may access funds through ATMs, similar to bank withdrawals.

• UPI platforms could allow quick transfers of eligible PF amounts to bank accounts.

This transformation is expected to bring EPFO services closer to real-time banking convenience.

Up to 75% PF Withdrawal Already Allowed

The Union Minister also clarified that under existing EPFO rules, employees are already permitted to withdraw up to 75% of their PF balance without specifying any reason. This provision is currently available and continues to remain in force.

The new ATM and UPI system will not change withdrawal limits immediately but will focus on improving speed, transparency, and ease of access.

Recent Changes in EPF Withdrawal Rules

In October 2025, the Central Board of Trustees (CBT) approved several important reforms in PF withdrawal norms. These changes were aimed at making the system more flexible and employee-centric. Key updates include:

• Partial withdrawal of up to 75% of the total PF balance.

• Reduction of minimum service period for advance withdrawal to one year.

• A 12-month waiting period prescribed for full withdrawal in certain cases.

These reforms, combined with the upcoming ATM and UPI facility, are expected to give employees greater control over their retirement savings.

Why This Update Matters for Employees

The government believes that these improvements will make PF withdrawals faster, more transparent, and significantly less stressful. Employees will benefit from:

• Reduced dependency on manual approvals

• Faster access to emergency funds

• Greater financial flexibility and control

• A more modern, banking-like PF experience

Once implemented, the ATM and UPI-based PF withdrawal system could mark one of the biggest service upgrades in EPFO’s history, directly impacting millions of working professionals across the country.

As the March 2026 timeline approaches, EPFO subscribers are advised to ensure their Aadhaar, UAN, and bank details are correctly linked to avoid issues when the new facility goes live.