What is Form 10C?

What is EPF Form 10C?

EPF Form 10C is used to claim benefits from the Employee Pension Scheme (EPS), which is a part of the Employee Provident Fund (EPF). While your EPF account gets contributions from both you and your employer, the EPS is funded only by your employer. If you leave your job before completing 10 years of service, you can use Form 10C to withdraw the EPS amount or get a pension certificate. This form can be submitted online through the EPFO website or at your nearest EPF office.

Form 10C EPFO is especially useful for those who do not qualify for a monthly pension but still want to access their EPS balance.

When to Use Form 10C?

Form 10C is used to claim benefits under the Employee Pension Scheme (EPS) when an employee exits or transitions between jobs. Here are the key scenarios where it applies:

1. Withdrawal of EPS Balance: If you have worked for less than 10 years and are leaving your job, you can apply for a withdrawal of the EPS amount accumulated in your account.

2. Obtaining a Scheme Certificate: If you plan to transfer your EPS benefits when switching jobs instead of withdrawing them, you can use Form 10C to request a scheme certificate. This helps retain your pension benefits for the future.

Note: EPFO now provides a composite claim form that may replace the standalone Form 10C in many cases. It is advisable to check the latest EPFO guidelines before applying.

Reasons Why an Employee Needs to Fill Out Form 10C

There are several reasons why employees need to fill out Form 10C in PF:

• To Update Personal Details: Employees can use Form 10C to update their details like name, address, or date of birth, ensuring their EPF records are accurate.
• To Claim Pension Benefits: This form is essential for claiming pension benefits under the Employee Pension Scheme (EPS) when an employee leaves or retires.
• To Withdraw EPS Amount: Employees who do not complete the required service period for a pension can withdraw their EPS contributions using Form 10C.
• For Smooth EPF Transfers: When changing jobs, submitting Form 10C ensures that the EPS amount is transferred seamlessly to the new employer.
• To Avoid Processing Delays: Providing correct details in Form 10C prevents unnecessary delays in pension or withdrawal claims.
• For Early Retirement or Exit Benefits: Employees who leave before retirement age can use this form to claim benefits they are eligible for under EPS.

Benefits of Form 10C

Filing Form 10C in PF means you can access your pension funds even if you do not qualify for a full pension. The key benefits include:

1. Scheme Certificate: If you have completed more than 9.5 years of service and are under 50 years of age, you can opt for a scheme certificate. This document will help you carry forward your pension benefits when you change jobs, ensuring that your service history remains intact.

2. Pension Withdrawal Benefit: If you have worked for less than 9.5 years and are under 50, you can withdraw your Employee Pension Scheme (EPS) balance. This is helpful if you do not plan to continue contributing to EPS and want to claim your accumulated pension amount.

Note that you cannot apply for a Withdrawal Benefit if your EPS membership is less than 180 days (excluding periods without contributions).

Eligibility to Apply for Form 10C

To be eligible for applying for Form 10C, the following conditions must be met:

• If you have left your job before completing 10 years of service
• If you turned 58 before completing 10 years of service
• If you have completed 10 years of service when leaving your job but are under 50 at the time of applying
• If you are between the age of 50 to 58 years and do not want a reduced pension
• Family/nominee/legal heir of a member who passed away after turning 58 before completing 10 years of service

Note: An individual is not eligible to receive any benefits if they have been a member for less than 180 days.

How to Download EPF Form 10C?

Form 10C can be downloaded from the EPFO’s official website. Here are the steps to download this form:

1. Visit the EPFO website (https://www.epfindia.gov.in).

2. Click on Downloads and select Form 10C.

3. The form will open as a PDF. Download and print it.

4. You can also apply online using the UMANG app or EPFO portal.

Should I Withdraw the EPS Balance?

You should consider withdrawing your EPS balance if you do not plan to work in an EPS-covered organization in the future. If planning to continue service, opting for a scheme certificate is a better choice.

Here is how this depends on your situation:

• If you plan to work again, transferring EPS through a scheme certificate is a better option.
• If you do not plan to work again, withdrawing your EPS amount makes sense.
• If you have worked for 10+ years, you cannot withdraw and must wait for monthly pension benefits after retirement.

How to Submit Form 10C Online?

Submitting Form 10C online is simple and can be done in a few easy steps:

1. Log in to your EPFO member account using your UAN (Universal Account Number) and password.

2. Click on ‘Online Services’ in the menu and select ‘Claim Form 10C, 19, and 31’.

3. Check your member and KYC (Know Your Customer) status on the next page, then click ‘Proceed Online Claim’.

4. Choose the type of claim:

• Withdraw PF only
• Withdraw Pension only

5. Fill out the claim form with the required details.

6. Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number to verify your request.

7. Once submitted, you will receive an SMS update about your claim status. The amount will be directly credited to your bank account after processing.

Documents Required to Submit With Form 10C

To successfully submit Form 10C, you need to provide the following documents:

• A copy of a blank or canceled cheque for account verification.
• Birth certificate of children (only if applying for a scheme certificate).
• Member’s death certificate (if claiming benefits after the member’s passing).
• A succession certificate for legal heirs (if applicable).
• ₹1 revenue stamp (required if withdrawing benefits through a bank)

Make sure that all your documents are clear and correctly filled out to avoid any unnecessary delays in processing your request.

Conclusion

Understanding what is Form 10C in PF is crucial for employees managing their EPS withdrawal or pension transfer. Understanding when and how to use it can help you make informed financial decisions. If you have worked for less than 10 years, you can withdraw your EPS. If you plan to continue working, getting a scheme certificate ensures your pension benefits stay intact. Make sure to file Form 10C correctly and submit all required documents for a smooth process!

FAQ on What is Form 10C