Stuck with Provident Fund: Can My Ex-Employer Withhold It and What Are My Legal Options?

Hi, I resigned from my previous company on 28th Feb '08, and since then my Full and Final settlement was pending due to some issues. Now, after more than one year, they are saying there is a recovery of 45000 Rs. against me; otherwise, they will not relieve me from my post.

Meanwhile, I have sent them my Provident Fund withdrawal form and requested them to process it (My company manages the PF amount on their own; they have a trust for that; it is not deposited with the Govt.) But despite my regular reminders via email, they are not processing my PF withdrawal.

I want to know if they can keep my PF amount like this or not? Also, can I go through legal procedures to have my PF back? What is the right process for that?

Hi,

You can lodge a complaint with the EPF office attached to the location. PF contributions cannot be withheld for any reason.

Thank you.

Dear Manu,

You may go through the website of EPF India, and all your doubts will be cleared. No one can withhold your PF if you want it. However, the employer can create some obstructions in the withdrawal of PF as his stamp and signature will be required, though he can't do anything in PF transfer from one account to another. You can lodge a complaint with the PF Commissioner.

[EPFO](http://www.epfindia.com/)

Gunjan