Am I Eligible to Withdraw My PF for Buying a Plot Despite a 6-Month Job Gap?

Hi, I want to know whether I am eligible to withdraw my PF amount for buying the plot. I read that a completed 5-year PF account will be eligible for withdrawal. However, I have almost a 6-month gap in between where I didn't work, so I don't have the PF amount for those 6 months. Please find below my account details.

1st company: June 2011 to May 2014 (I have not transferred this amount; 2 months ago, I requested the PF transfer. As far as I know, the current company has submitted the cheque to the EPO office).

2nd company: November 2014 to July 2016 (PF amount transferred to the current PF account).

Current company: July 2016 to present

In the middle, there is a gap of almost 6 months. I want to know whether I am eligible to withdraw PF money for buying a plot.

Thanks & Regards,
Sravani.

Sravani, based on your query, to be eligible for PF withdrawal for buying a plot of land, certain conditions need to be met. Here are the key points to consider:

1. The general rule for PF withdrawal for the purchase of land is that the account holder should have completed at least 5 years of continuous service. However, certain exceptions may apply in specific cases.

2. In your case, the gap in employment for 6 months may impact your eligibility for PF withdrawal. The total service period is calculated based on the cumulative service across all your previous employers where PF contributions were made.

3. Since your PF amount from the first company is in the process of being transferred to your current PF account, it is essential to ensure that the transfer is completed successfully to consolidate your service period.

4. Once the transfer is completed, the total service period will be calculated from the date of joining your first company to the present employment. If this period exceeds 5 years, you may be eligible for PF withdrawal for buying a plot of land.

5. It is advisable to check with your current PF office or HR department to confirm the status of the transfer and seek clarification on your eligibility based on the total service period.

6. Ensure that all necessary documentation and forms are submitted accurately and promptly to facilitate the PF withdrawal process for purchasing the plot of land.

7. Remember to comply with any additional requirements or conditions specified by the EPFO (Employees' Provident Fund Organisation) for such withdrawals.

By following these steps and clarifying your eligibility status, you can proceed with the PF withdrawal process for buying the plot of land.