The EPF Scheme 2026 has been officially notified by the government, introducing revised partial withdrawal rules that came into effect on June 29. The updated scheme requires members of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) to maintain a minimum balance of 25% in their EPF accounts before making partial withdrawals. The changes are aimed at ensuring long-term retirement savings while offering greater flexibility for eligible withdrawals.
EPF Scheme 2026 Introduces 25% Minimum Balance Rule
Under the revised scheme, EPFO members must retain at least 25% of their eligible member balance before making any partial withdrawal. Any withdrawal amount will be calculated only after setting aside this mandatory minimum balance.
The requirement applies to both employee and employer contributions. For instance, if an EPF account has an eligible balance of Rs 1 lakh, members must retain Rs 25,000, leaving up to Rs 75,000 available for withdrawal, subject to EPF rules.
The government says the provision is designed to protect retirement savings while allowing access to funds during genuine financial needs.
Revised EPF Partial Withdrawal Rules Expand Eligible Reasons
The EPF Scheme 2026 also expands the list of permissible reasons for partial withdrawals.
Housing-related withdrawals now include:
- Buying a house or flat
- Purchasing land for home construction
- Constructing a house
- Repaying a home loan
- Home repairs and improvements
Members can also withdraw up to 100% of their eligible balance for expenses related to illness, higher education, and marriage.
Additionally, members become eligible for partial withdrawals after completing just 12 months of service, making fund access easier than before.
EPFO to Launch UPI-Based PF Withdrawals
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation has completed testing of a UPI-based PF withdrawal facility, allowing subscribers to transfer provident fund money directly into their bank accounts.
The initiative is expected to significantly reduce claim processing time and improve the overall digital experience for more than seven crore EPFO members.
EPFO WhatsApp Services Coming Soon
EPFO is also preparing to launch WhatsApp-based member services within the next month.
Subscribers will be able to start a conversation by sending a “Hello” message to EPFO’s verified WhatsApp number.
The service will allow members to:
- Check PF balance
- View the last five transactions
- Track claim status
- Access services in regional languages
The move is expected to enhance customer support, accessibility, and grievance redressal for millions of subscribers across India.
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