Navigating EPF After Leaving a Job: Interest, Transfers, and Scheme Certificate Queries

EPF Interest Accumulation

1. My daughter has left her job after 18 years of service. If she does not withdraw the EPF contribution, will she get interest until 58 years or more whenever she withdraws?

Applying for a Scheme Certificate

2. When should she apply for a scheme certificate and to whom? Does she have to go through the last employer, or can she apply directly to EPFO since she has a UAN number?

Transferring EPF Account

3. She left 3 months ago. If she joins another employer now or after a few years, can she transfer the account to a new employer, or does she have to produce a scheme certificate?

Time Limit for Scheme Certificate

4. Is there a time limit for applying for a scheme certificate?

Maintaining EPF Account Until Age 58

5. If she wants to keep the account until the age of 58, does she have to inform EPFO?

1. If your daughter chooses not to withdraw her EPF contribution after leaving her job, the amount will continue to accrue interest until she decides to withdraw it, even if it's after the age of 58.

2. To apply for a scheme certificate, she can do so directly through the EPFO since she already has a UAN number. She does not necessarily need to involve her last employer in this process.

3. If your daughter joins a new employer, she can choose to transfer her EPF account to the new employer. In this case, she does not need to produce a scheme certificate. The transfer process can be initiated through the new employer.

4. There is no specific time limit for applying for a scheme certificate. However, it is advisable to complete this process promptly to ensure smooth transition and management of the EPF account.

5. If she wishes to keep the EPF account active until the age of 58, she does not need to inform the EPFO separately. The account will continue to exist, and she can choose to withdraw the amount or transfer it when needed.