EPF Withdrawal via ATM – Is It Possible?

Introduction

Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) is a retirement benefits scheme managed by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India. It encourages savings among employees for retirement by mandating contributions from both employer and employee.

While EPF withdrawal is possible under certain conditions, many people wonder whether it can be done through an ATM. Here's a complete guide to clarify this.

Is EPF Withdrawal Possible Through ATM?

❌ No, EPF withdrawal is currently not possible through any ATM.

As of now, the EPFO does not offer any facility to withdraw EPF funds using an ATM card. All withdrawals must be done through the official EPFO channels – either online through the Unified Portal or offline via physical forms submitted to the EPFO office.

How Can EPF Be Withdrawn?

1. Online Method (Recommended)

You can easily withdraw EPF online via the UAN member portal:

Eligibility to Withdraw Online:

• UAN (Universal Account Number) must be activated.

• Aadhaar must be linked and verified with UAN.

• Bank account and PAN must be linked with UAN.

• KYC should be completed and approved by the employer.

Steps to Withdraw EPF Online:

1. Visit: https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in/memberinterface/

2. Login with your UAN and password.

3. Go to Online Services > Claim (Form-31, 19 & 10C).

4. Enter the last 4 digits of your bank account number and verify.

5. Select the type of withdrawal (Full/Partial).

6. Fill the required details and upload necessary documents.

7. Submit the request using Aadhaar-based OTP verification.

🕑 Processing Time: 7–15 working days in most cases.

2. Offline Method

You can also withdraw EPF by submitting a physical composite claim form to the EPFO office.

There are two types:

• Aadhaar-based Composite Claim Form: Does not require employer attestation.

• Non-Aadhaar Composite Claim Form: Requires employer attestation.

Submit the form along with:

• A copy of PAN and Aadhaar.

• Cancelled cheque with IFSC code.

• Form 15G (if applicable, for avoiding TDS).

When Can EPF Be Withdrawn?

Purpose	Withdrawal Allowed	Notes
Unemployment (over 1 month)	Up to 75%	After 1 month of unemployment. Full withdrawal after 2 months.
Medical Emergency	Up to 6 times wages	No conditions.
Marriage/Higher Education	50% of contribution	After 7 years of service.
Purchase/Construction of House	Up to 90%	After 5 years of service.
Retirement	Full Withdrawal	After 58 years of age.

Can EPF Be Linked to ATM or Debit Card?

No. EPF is a savings scheme managed by EPFO and not a bank account. It does not come with:

• An ATM card

• Internet banking

• UPI functionality

EPF funds can only be transferred to your bank account. Once the money is credited to your bank, you can use your ATM/debit card to access the funds.

Beware of Scams

EPFO has warned members not to share UAN, Aadhaar, PAN, or OTP with anyone promising instant withdrawals or ATM-like services for EPF.

Always use:

• EPFO official website: https://www.epfindia.gov.in

• UAN Portal: https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in

Conclusion

Currently, EPF withdrawal through an ATM is not possible. However, online withdrawal via the EPFO member portal is fast, secure, and efficient. Make sure your KYC details are updated and always use official channels for your EPF-related activities.