Struggling with Incorrect EPF Deductions: How Can I Resolve This Without Employer Help?

EPF Deduction Issue with Previous Organizations

EPF was deducted by three previous organizations wrongly as my wages were more than 15,000. The debit that started with the first organization has already closed its establishment, and I had to withdraw the PF amount at that time. EPF remained in that organization's PF account. The current organization is also continuing the same practice.

I have reached out to all the previous organizations, but no one is responding to this issue. This situation has also prevented me from transferring the account to a new establishment, while the current establishment is also debiting the EPF. When I inquired about this discrepancy, they mentioned that the past establishment records need to be corrected before any action can be taken with the new establishments. It seems they do not have clarity on how to proceed.

I visited the PF office, and they requested a letter, but no progress has been made since. How should I address this issue? If I need to resolve it on my own without the employer's help, what steps should I take? It is concerning that no establishment is assisting former employees, and they appear to be least bothered about the situation.

EPF Coverage and Transfer Issues

If the previous organization had covered you under EPF, it is not necessarily a wrong act. Even an employee whose salary exceeds Rs 15,000 can be given PF, and most employers do it because the Provident Fund is a very good investment for the employee. It provides interest that no banks can offer and serves as a tax-saving investment. However, for employees who joined PF after September 2014, the pension will not be available, but they will receive the entire 12% share of the employer under their PF account.

Transferring EPF Between Organizations

Now, having registered under the EPF, you have no other option but to continue in the other establishments where you join. It is possible for you to transfer the amount from the first company and the second company to the current organization. If the previous companies are not operational and not responding to your requests to approve the transfer, you can submit the transfer request for approval through the current/present employer as well. You can also check the balance under each PF account and verify whether these accounts have been transferred to the present account. Please visit the member portal and complete the transfer formalities.