EPFO automates claims, processes 2.16 crore this year

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has made big improvements to its claims processing system. This year, the EPFO has settled 60 percent of advance withdrawal requests through automation. As a result, it has processed a record 2.16 crore claims in the current financial year, a significant increase from 89.52 lakh claims last year. Labour and Employment Minister Shobha Karandlaje shared these details in a written response in the Lok Sabha. The automation has made the process faster, with settlements now taking just three days for various needs, such as medical emergencies, housing, education, and marriage expenses. To further ease access to funds, the withdrawal limit for advances has been raised to Rs 1 lakh. EPFO has also simplified updating member details. Those with Aadhaar-verified Universal Account Numbers (UANs) can now make corrections online without needing EPFO approval. Currently, 96 percent of corrections are done this way, reducing the need for visits to physical offices. Over 99 percent of claims are now filed online, with 7.14 crore claims submitted digitally by early March 2025. This shift has cut down on paperwork. Another key improvement is the removal of employer attestation for transfer claims of Aadhaar-verified UANs. This change has made the process more user-friendly and less dependent on employers. EPFO is focused on enhancing service delivery and ensuring members have timely access to their funds. Through automation and reduced bureaucratic hurdles, it aims to improve financial accessibility for millions of employees in India.