Navigating PF Account Closure: Do I Really Need a Court Affidavit?

I resigned from my job 6 months ago, and now I want to close my PF account there. My previous employer is asking for an affidavit from the court stating "either I am not currently employed or the current company does not have a PF facility," along with the 19 & 10c forms. I would like to know if it is necessary to provide that kind of declaration.

Secondly, if I provide the affidavit to close my PF account, will I be able to open a new PF account in another organization in the future? Currently, I am working at another company that has PF facilities but is not deducting anything as it will activate after 1 year, as they have informed.

Your guidance on this matter would be greatly appreciated. Please advise me on what steps I should take.

Yes, it is necessary to give such a declaration form. If your current establishment is covered by the P.F. Act, it is advisable to get your P.F. fund transferred to the account of the new establishment.

Regards,
B. Saikumar
HR & Labour Law Advisor
Mumbai

Employment Period and Affidavit Requirement

How many months have you spent with them? I mean your employment period with your employer because if you have no further plans to go for employment or a job, you certainly have to give them a declaration that you are not working somewhere, which is really important, and there is no harm in it too. You can explain why it is important and why you have been asked to furnish this information because employees change jobs and often do not inform their previous employer about their new employment or for EPF account transfer. The new employer has to open a new EPF account, which creates a burden on the government/EPF department. Therefore, it is important to do so.

Affidavit Cost and Process

Why are you worrying so much about this? It will cost a maximum of Rs 40 to prepare an affidavit, and you can easily furnish this to them. You have already resigned from your position, and I assume you have received your full and final settlement and all dues along with your experience/relieving letter.