Understanding GPF, CPF, EPF, and PPF: How Do You Navigate Transfers and Withdrawals?

Dear all,

Some clarifications are expected in response to this post from our learned HRian regarding GPF, CPF, EPF, and PPF. We have received some information about EPF. Can anybody provide some hints about General PF, Contributory PF, and Public PF? How can we learn about the various procedures such as transfer, withdrawal, etc., under GPF, PPF, and CPF Rules? Also, it would be helpful if the necessary statutory forms for claiming, transferring, or partially/fully withdrawing PF amounts under GPF, PPF, and CPF Rules are explained. Any member with ideas on the above is welcome to contribute and stay updated. Thanks and best wishes to all members on the auspicious occasion of "DUSSEHRA (Durga Puja)." Early responses/replies are awaited.

With warm regards,
Biswajit Pani
E-mail Id: bjpani@gmail.com

Mr. Amit,

Thank you for your prompt reply. I've already visited the EPF site which is specially meant for employees who are employed in any of the industries specified therein. Reminding you that my query was about General PF, Contributory PF, and Public PF. I just want to know if there is any website that can provide all the details about the same?

Thanks and best wishes.

With best regards, [Biswajit Pani] E-mail Id: bjpani@gmail.com

I need to know my account number for my PF as I have transferred to a new workplace.

Suparna Sur - previous employee of Orient Craft, Gurgaon

As per my knowledge, I am saying a few words, but I can't say it is 100% correct. GPF is for the state government employees, as in the case of Tamil Nadu, especially the teachers and others.

PPF is the Public Provident Fund introduced in the year 1999 by the Central Government, which requires the general public to contribute by having a separate PF Code and managed by the Post Office. They will have a pension at the retirement age, but I think that this scheme is currently not active.

In the case of CPF, the Central Government had issued a notification in the year 2003 or 2004. Those who are recruited for the posts filled by UPSC will be covered under the Contributory Pension Fund. They will not be eligible for the old service pension rules that were previously applied to employees. I believe this scheme is currently in effect.

General Provident Fund (GPF)

GPF is for government employees. The maturity is at retirement; however, some amount may be drawn before maturity as per laid down rules. It is tax-free under Section 80C. The contribution is 50% from the employee and 50% from the government, fixed around 12% of the employee's pay. An employee may contribute more than 12%, but the government will not contribute more than 12% in any case.

Contributory Provident Fund (CPF)

CPF is for every non-pensionable servant of the government belonging to any of the services under the control of the President.

Employees' Provident Fund (EPF/PF)

EPF is for private sector employees. The maturity is at retirement; however, some amount may be drawn before maturity as per laid down rules. The whole amount can also be drawn before maturity, but in this condition, income tax would be deducted. It is tax-free under Section 80C. The contribution is 50% from the employee and 50% from the government, fixed around 12% of the employee's pay. An employee may contribute more than 12%, but the government will not contribute more than 12% in any case.

Public Provident Fund (PPF)

PPF is for everybody, whether an employee, private sector employee, or self-employed person. It is tax-free under Section 80C. The maturity is 15 years and may be extended for another 5 years if the account holder is willing to do so. Some amount can be drawn at various stages as per laid down rules. It involves 100% individual contribution with no government contribution.