In a move that could significantly change how Provident Fund (PF) subscribers access their savings, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is set to deliberate on its EPFO 3.0 initiative during a meeting scheduled for October 10–11. The proposals include enabling partial withdrawals via ATMs and UPI, alongside a possible increase in the minimum monthly pension.
EPFO 3.0: Banking-Like Features For Subscribers
The new initiative aims to introduce facilities similar to banking services, making provident funds more accessible. If implemented, subscribers could withdraw a portion of their PF directly through ATMs or UPI-enabled transactions, a move designed to enhance convenience and improve service delivery for nearly 80 million subscribers.
Currently, withdrawals are processed via NEFT or RTGS, taking two to three days. Withdrawing through ATMs could make funds instantly available, especially useful in urgent situations.
Pension Hike Proposal
The Central Board of Trustees will also discuss raising the minimum pension under EPFO from the current ₹1,000 per month to a range of ₹1,500–₹2,500. This long-pending demand from trade unions is expected to benefit millions of pensioners struggling with rising living costs.
Concerns From Trade Unions
Despite the excitement, some trade unions are cautious about the proposal to allow withdrawals through ATMs and UPI. They argue that provident funds are meant for retirement security, not for frequent spending. Easy access, they warn, might dilute the long-term savings purpose and encourage premature withdrawals.
At present, automated withdrawals up to ₹5 lakh are permitted for specific needs such as medical emergencies, education, housing, or marriage expenses. Trade unions stress that any new facility should not compromise this framework.
A Diwali Gift For Subscribers?
Sources suggest the government wants to introduce these changes before Diwali, to boost consumer spending and provide relief to subscribers. However, the final decision will rest with the Central Board of Trustees, which includes representatives from the government, employers, and employees.
If approved, EPFO 3.0 could mark a historic modernization step, aligning the organisation’s services with digital banking trends while addressing pensioner demands.
