EPFO settles 3.31 lakh claims in 15 Days

New Delhi, Apr 17 (KNN) The Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has said processed 3.31 lakh provident fund withdrawal claims amounting to Rs 946.49 crore in 15 days, said an official statement.

The government had notified the special withdrawal provision on March 28 for a special withdrawal from the EPF Scheme to tide over the COVID-19 pandemic, as part of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY) package.

As per the EPFO, another Rs 284 crore have been distributed by the exempted PF trusts under this scheme, notable among them being TCS.

Under this provision, non-refundable withdrawal to the extent of the basic wages and dearness allowances for three months or up to 75 per cent of the amount standing to member's credit in the EPF account, whichever is less, is admissible.

The member can apply for lesser amount also. This being an advance, does not attract income tax deductions.

''EPFO is committed to serve its members during this crisis, and EPFO offices are functional to maintain the continuity of essential services even in difficult situations,'' statement read.

The availability of these facilities through online services has brought much relief to the needy subscribers during the lockdown period, coming to their rescue during these testing times, statement said.