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According to a report, one out of every three PF withdrawal claims is being rejected. This is happening because there are mistakes in the information you are giving at the time of withdrawal. In such a situation, the procedure should be followed before claiming withdrawal. Ajit Singh's report explains the mathematics of the correct way to claim PF-
The Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) rejects the withdrawal claim when the information provided does not match the information in its database. These include name, date of birth or even incomplete KYC records can lead to claim rejection. Therefore, take certain steps before filing a claim to avoid any rejection or delay. Before filing a claim certain information should be checked on the Member Services Portal of EPFO.

Update information all the time

Whether making an EPF claim now or in the future, you should update certain information on the EPFO ​​portal all the time. This will also help in the easy withdrawal claim process and transfer of accounts when changing jobs.

• Job Description: Includes dates of joining and leaving the institutions, employer details, and any gaps in service.
• Universal Account Number (UAN): Update it with current company details by activating it.
• Bank Account: Check and verify account number, IFSC. Incorrect bank details are a common reason for claim rejection.
• ID and address proof: As per EPFO ​​records. This includes name, date of birth, and father's name among others. To check this, members can visit the service portal.

Make corrections in the records immediately. If
If the above records are not updated, then corrections should be made immediately. This will help avoid hassles while filing claims. After this information is updated in EPFO ​​records the following steps should be taken before filing the claim.

Select the appropriate form for the type of claim. Fill it correctly. Account transfer and withdrawal forms are separate. Check eligibility for withdrawal, as there are different conditions for different withdrawal purposes. Also, check that the form has been filled out completely and correctly. Submit the filled form along with the canceled cheque, ID, address proof, and other relevant documents. Update Know Your Customer (KYC) details like Aadhaar, PAN, and bank account details. Link it to the EPF account. EPFO allows members to file claims on the service portal itself. This reduces the chances of the claim being rejected. Claims, account transfers, and KYC updates can be done digitally.

EPFO aims to settle withdrawal claims within 20 days of the claim being made. EPFO verifies bank records with the banker and employer for verification of claim and other details in some cases. -Pankaj Kadam, Tax Consultant