In case you do not have the Universal Account Number (UAN) with you or never enrolled for it, do not be worried, you can withdraw your Provident Fund (PF) amount by applying directly under the offline process at your area EPFO office. The UAN allows tracking of your PF account but is not required for claim processing, especially in the case of old PF accounts or exempted establishments' accounts.
Use Form 19 and other forms
To apply for PF withdrawal without UAN, you will have to submit a filled Form 19 (final settlement) and Form 10C (withdrawal of pension), cancelled cheque or passbook copy, and ID proof. You will also have to submit a letter from your employer indicating your identity and service period. If you are older, you may have to personally visit the EPFO office to deposit these forms.
Verify information with your employer
In most of the cases, even without your UAN, your employer can trace your PF account by using your old PF number, which is normally mentioned on your salary slips or Form 16. Your employer can also give a certification or verification letter which will enable the EPFO to verify your claim easily and speed up the processing. Offline option may be time-consuming
Without online authentication and UAN, the offline process will take about a couple of weeks more. Your documents will be manually verified and cross-checked by EPFO officials. Discrepancies or spelling errors in your joining dates, bank account number, or your name will create delays, so it's always prudent to double-check all the ID proof and forms submitted.
Activate your UAN if possible
Although you may proceed without UAN, it is advisable to activate the same online on EPFO website using your PAN or Aadhaar number. Once you link it, it assists you in filing claims online, checking balance, and transferring PF from old employers to new ones effortlessly. Activation also reduces possibilities of fraud or delay.
FAQs
Q. Can I withdraw my PF if I forget my UAN?
Yes, you can. You will need your PF number and documents like Form 19, ID proof, and a cancelled cheque. Your employer may also be asked to verify your claim.
Q. How long does offline PF withdrawal without UAN?
Offline PF withdrawal without UAN may take 3-6 weeks, subject to document verification and approval by your region EPFO office.
Q. Is Aadhaar compulsory for PF withdrawal without UAN?
Aadhaar is not required but helps to verify your identity faster. If Aadhaar has been linked to your bank account and payroll, it facilitates the offline process.
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