New Delhi: The Central Government has officially notified the Employees’ Provident Funds (EPF) Scheme, 2026, replacing the long-standing EPF Scheme, 1952 under the Code on Social Security, 2020. While the new framework retains core contribution rates and benefits, it introduces simplified withdrawal rules, enhanced digital compliance and updated eligibiliaategories, making it easier for EPF members to access their savings for approved purposes such as medical emergencies, housing needs and other special circumstances.
The revised rules also clarify withdrawal eligibility. Members can continue to make partial withdrawals while in service for eligible purposes, while full withdrawal remains permissible on retirement, permanent disability, permanent migration abroad or under other specified conditions. Employees who lose their jobs can withdraw up to 75% of their EPF balance after one month of unemployment, with the remaining balance becoming available subject to the prescribed conditions if unemployment continues.
The new framework strengthens digital governance by making Aadhaar-based authentication, online claim processing and digital compliance central to the EPF system. The changes are expected to speed up claim settlements, reduce paperwork and improve transparency for both employers and employees.
Importantly, the government has not changed the statutory EPF contribution rate, wage ceiling or Universal Account Number (UAN) system. The employee and employer contribution structure remains unchanged, ensuring continuity for existing subscribers while modernising the administrative framework.
The scheme also introduces stricter compliance norms for employers and exempted provident fund trusts, with greater emphasis on timely deposits, digital record-keeping and accountability. These measures are intended to strengthen governance and improve the overall efficiency of India’s social security system.
The EPF Scheme, 2026 came into effect on June 29, 2026, and is expected to benefit millions of EPF subscribers by making withdrawals simpler, improving digital services and ensuring better protection of retirement savings under the Social Security Code.
