The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is preparing to introduce a new system of authorized facilitators. These facilitators, called 'EPF Suvidha Providers,' will assist members with accessing benefits and resolving various issues related to their Provident Fund accounts.
Upcoming Board Meeting to Deliberate
An official told TOI that the issue will be discussed in the upcoming meeting of the central board of trustees in February. The EPFO will authorize and regulate these Suvidha Providers. This move aims to enhance access for members, particularly first-timers and those who are not familiar with digital systems.
Pilot Project in Delhi
A pilot project is currently underway in Delhi. This initiative is part of a broader digital overhaul by the EPFO. The goal is to create a single-window system for resolving any PF-related issue. The official added that Suvidha Providers will receive incentives based on the number of members they assist.
Recent EPFO Reforms
In October, during a CBT meeting, the social security organisation streamlined 13 complex withdrawal provisions into a single rule. This allows members to withdraw up to 75% of their eligible PF balance for specified needs. EPFO is also set to operationalise an instantaneous advance withdrawal facility via the BHIM app in the coming days.
Doorstep Service for Pensioners
Last week, EPFO launched a free doorstep service for EPS pensioners. This service enables pensioners to submit their Digital Life Certificate without visiting a bank or EPFO office. EPFO partnered with India Post Payments Bank to send postal workers to pensioners' homes. These workers verify identities using Aadhaar-based biometric or face authentication and generate the Digital Life Certificate on the spot.
