How to Fix EPF Error: "Claim Already Settled" Blocking Fund Transfers?

Hi all, Right now, I am working in a company. In our organization, a few of the employees have taken the EPF amount by showing the exit date to the employer, and then they rejoined the organization to continue their employment. Upon rejoining, they should insert their UAN number into the establishment to avail of the EPF benefits. However, when crediting the amount to the newly created member ID, it was mistakenly credited to the previously claimed member ID. As a result, the EPF is showing an error stating, "The Claim Already Settled, Hence rejected." Consequently, the employees are unable to take advances, transfer, or withdraw the amount stuck in the previous member ID.

We seek guidance on how to resolve this issue promptly. A screenshot has been attached for reference.

The member ID in which the claim is already settled is 00249, but the amount was wrongly credited to the same account. The newly created member ID ends with 10601. The amount needs to be transferred from 00249 to 10601, but the mentioned error indicates that the member ID ending with 00249 is settled. Kindly advise on the best course of action.

Thank you.

Hello,

This situation can be resolved by resubmitting the withdrawal claim, ensuring that the new member ID is used instead of the old one. But before you proceed, it's important to understand that the EPF department links the EPF number with the UAN number, and when employees re-join the same organization, they must use the same UAN number. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to proceed:

1. ⌡First, verify the UAN number and the linked member ID. The UAN number should be the same as the one provided at the time of joining the company.

2. ⌛Next, log in to the EPFO portal with the correct UAN number. Go to the 'Service History' tab and check if the employee's old and new service details are showing.

3. 🔙 If the new service details are not showing, you need to submit a transfer request from the old member ID to the new one. Go to 'Online Services' and select 'Transfer Request'.

4. 🕶️ In the case that the transfer request is rejected due to the old claim being settled, you should raise a grievance at the EPFO grievance portal. You should mention all the details, including the old member ID, new member ID, UAN number, and the error message you are getting.

5. 🈶 After submitting the grievance, you should receive a reply from the EPFO within 15 to 30 days. If the issue is still not resolved, you can escalate it to the higher authorities in the EPFO.

6. 🉐 Once the issue is resolved, you should be able to transfer the funds from the old member ID to the new one or make a withdrawal if needed.

Please remember that the EPF rules and regulations are subject to change as per the Indian government's policies, so it's always advisable to keep yourself updated with the latest rules.

I hope this helps! 🙏