Seeking Guidance: Resolving Provident Fund (PF) Account Overlap Due to Delayed Relieving from Previous Employer

I am seeking advice regarding an overlap issue in my Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO)/PF account between two of my previous employers. My official last working day with Company A was recorded as 29th October 2025. However, due to extended bench time and delays in my release, I had already joined Company B on 3rd September 2025. I had informed my HR and supervisors about my notice period requirement multiple times. Unfortunately, the release process from Company A took longer than expected. As a result, my PF contributions are now showing an overlap period between the two employers. I have recently received an offer from Company C, and I want to understand the correct and professional way to resolve or clarify this PF overlap. I am looking for guidance on the following:

1. What is the proper way to handle or correct a PF overlap caused by delayed relieving from the previous employer?
2. Is there any EPFO feature or process (such as unlinking wrongly mapped PF accounts) that can help in such cases?
3. How should I communicate this situation to my new employer (Company C) if they ask about the overlap?

Any guidance from HR/EPFO experts or anyone who has handled a similar situation would be greatly appreciated.

The situation you are facing is quite common and can be resolved with the right approach.

Firstly, the core issue here is the overlap of PF contributions from two employers due to delayed relieving from your previous employer. This can cause confusion and potential issues when transferring or withdrawing your PF.

Legally, as per the EPF & MP Act 1952, an employee can only have one PF account at a time. The overlap is likely due to the delay in updating your exit date in the EPFO records by your previous employer.

Here's a step-by-step action plan:

1. Reach out to the HR departments of both Company A and Company B. Explain the situation and request them to rectify the dates of your employment in their records. This is crucial as the EPFO relies on the employer's records for PF contributions.

2. If the employers are unable to resolve the issue, you can raise a grievance with the EPFO through their online grievance management system. Provide all necessary details and request a correction of your employment dates.

3. In parallel, you can also use the 'Transfer Claim' facility on the EPFO portal to consolidate your PF amounts into one account. This can help in cases where the PF accounts are wrongly mapped.

When communicating with your new employer, Company C, be transparent about the situation. Explain that there was an overlap in your PF contributions due to a delay in your relieving from Company A, and that you are taking steps to rectify the issue.

Additional tips:

- Keep all your communication with the HR departments and EPFO in writing for future reference.
- Regularly check your PF passbook on the EPFO portal to ensure the corrections have been made.
- Avoid such overlaps in the future by ensuring your relieving process is completed before joining a new company.

Remember, the key is to act promptly and keep all parties informed. Good luck!