Confused About My Old EPF Account: Can I Opt Out and What Happens If I Switch Jobs Again?

In 2008, I worked in a company for less than six months (only two days short of six months). I had an EPF account, which was managed by the EPF office in Delhi, even though I am from West Bengal. When I left the company and submitted forms to withdraw the EPF amount, I received a reply from the EPF office stating that since my tenure was less than six months, I was not entitled to receive the amount.

I do not remember the exact wording of the letter because I no longer have it, but this was the gist. I did not pursue the matter further as the amount was small, and I thought it would be a hassle. Subsequently, I worked for a company that did not have a PF provision. I have now joined another company where they will start PF contributions from this month. They have asked me to fill out Form 2 and Form 11. I have a few questions:

a) I have the EPF account number from my previous company. When I tried to check the status on the EPF portal, it said "Invalid Input / Member name mismatch against this account number."

I believe the EPF account has been deactivated. Can I ask my employer to exempt me from EPF as my basic salary is above Rs. 6500?

b) Besides the online portal, how can I confirm the status of my previous EPF account?

c) If I find that the account exists and can be activated, is it mandatory for me to transfer the amount to the new EPF account of my current employer?

If I do so and my job is terminated before six months, i.e., before next May, what will happen?

Regards.

First, confirm your previous company's PF number. You are only eligible for the EPF amount, so fill only PF Form 19 and Form 10C. If you do not want to withdraw your money, apply for PF in your current company. Once your name is registered for PF in this company, fill out Form 13, also known as the Transfer form. Your PF amount will then be transferred to your new EPF number.

Your PF amount will be transferred accordingly.

First of all, I would like to mention that only one form will be applicable in a particular case at a time. It may be Form-2 (if PF membership is applicable) or Form-11 (if exempt from PF). Some organizations keep both forms duly filled and signed by the member, but they should be maintained as per the Act.

Answers to Your Query

A) As the last transaction in your last EPF account was in 2008 and now it is 2013, accounts that are inactive for more than 3 years are frozen by the department. That's why it is showing "Invalid Input / Member name mismatch." However, it also means that the account is still in existence. But, that doesn't matter with your current membership with EPF. So, if your employer is offering you the membership, then don't deny it.

B) You can file an RTI in the concerned EPF Office and ask for the details of your EPF account.

C) After getting that account activated, it is recommended to transfer the balance of that account to the new EPF account, and as per the act, it is mandatory.

Finally, I didn't understand why you are assuming that you will be terminated from there before 6 months...!!

Always move forward with a positive note.

Hope this will help you.

Regards