EPFO Rules: Now will old PF accounts be automatically linked? This loss can occur if the merger is not done!

PC: abplive

Private sector employees are often worried about their financial security after retirement. Many people invest in various ways to secure their future, and a Provident Fund (PF) deduction from their salary acts as an essential savings. Companies deposit their share in the PF account of employees every month. However, some employees have multiple PF accounts as they do not link their old accounts when they join the new company. Here's how you can merge these accounts:

Now the accounts will be merged automatically.

Under the new rules starting from April 1, 2024, there is no need to manually link multiple PF accounts. Whenever an employee changes jobs, his old PF account will be automatically linked to the new one. This simplifies the process of managing PF accounts as only one account will remain active.

Not merging your EPF accounts can lead to many complications. This may impact tax-saving strategies and hinder viewing of your consolidated PF balance in one place. Moreover, accessing funds during emergencies becomes challenging as each PF account has a specific withdrawal period, which ranges from one to two years.

Steps to link multiple PF accounts

To merge your old PF accounts, follow these steps:

Visit the official website of EPFO.

Click on the option 'One Employee One PF Account'.

A form will appear where you need to enter your UAN (Universal Account Number) and mobile number.

After entering the OTP, your old PF account will appear.

Fill in the PF account number and accept the declaration.

After submission, your accounts will be merged within a few days.

Merging your multiple PF accounts ensures better management and a hassle-free experience, streamlining your savings for retirement.