Earlier, advance withdrawal of PF balance could be made under Para 68J (Advance for Illness) and Para 68N (Advance for Handicap Support Equipment) Only after providing a certificate from a physician with employer approval. There was no other documents or information required. Under the EPF (Fifth Amendment) Scheme, 2017, Para 68J (Advance for Illness) and Para 68N (Advance for Handicap Support Equipment) have been amended. A new policy was introduced in which members can request or opt for an advance after providing a self-declaration. The said change is applicable from 25th April 2017.
Under the amended Clause 68J and 68N of the Employees Provident Fund Scheme 1952, a member can file for non-refundable advances from his/her PF account for the treatment of illness, buy equipment, etc. (activities that minimize hardships on account of the handicap).
Following this amendment, subscribers can now seek fund withdrawal from their Employee Provident Fund (EPF) account on various grounds by using a Composite Form along with a Self-Declaration.