EPFO: Trouble often arrives unexpectedly, and losing a family's main breadwinner is not just an emotional setback but also a financial catastrophe for the family. In such challenging times, EPFO schemes serve as a protective barrier. If you have a family member working in the private sector and their PF contributions were made, this article will be quite beneficial. Discover the essential steps you need to take to obtain financial support. First Step: Obtain a Death Certificate A death certificate is the most crucial document needed to start any legal or financial procedure. Without it, you won't be able to access any benefits. You can apply for one online by visiting your municipal corporation or local authority's website. Free insurance coverage up to Rs 7 lakh (EDLI Scheme) Many people are unaware that if an employee passes away while still employed, their family is eligible for insurance coverage of up to ₹7 lakh under the EDLI (Employees' Deposit Linked Insurance) scheme. The employee does not need to pay any additional premium for this. PF and pension funds All funds (including interest) in the deceased's PF account are transferred to their nominee or legal heir. If the member had completed 10 years of service, their spouse is entitled to a lifelong pension. Furthermore, two children will receive pension benefits until they turn 25. When it comes to banks and loans, it's important to never withdraw funds using a deceased person's ATM card, as this can be deemed illegal. Instead, visit the bank with the death certificate and request the funds to be transferred through the account's nominee. Also, check if the deceased's loan was insured. If it was, the insurance company will cover the loan balance, relieving the family of that burden. How to file a claim? The EPFO has made the process much easier these days. A nominee can submit a claim either online or offline by completing a Composite Claim Form (Death Cases). This must be accompanied by a death certificate, Aadhaar card, and the nominee's bank account information (such as a cancelled check). Losing a loved one is incredibly painful, and while nothing can truly alleviate that sorrow, completing this small piece of paperwork promptly can offer financial security for your family's future. Be brave and take the necessary steps to protect your rights. EPFO Death Claim If the deceased's UAN was connected to Aadhaar and their nomination was updated digitally, the nominee can file the claim online from the comfort of their home. Step 1: Access the EPFO portal Begin by visiting the official EPFO Unified Member Portal. You will find the option to file a Death Claim by Beneficiary here. Step 2: Provide the necessary information You will need to enter some details about the nominee/beneficiary: - UAN number of the deceased - Name of the Beneficiary - Date of Birth of the Beneficiary - Other details and captcha code as per Aadhaar card Step 3: After entering the Aadhaar verification details, an OTP will be sent to the nominee's mobile number linked to Aadhaar. Once you enter it, the system will confirm that you are the rightful nominee. Step 4: Choose the appropriate form. After logging in, you will need to complete various forms (all available on the same portal): - Form 20: For withdrawing PF money - Form 10D: To initiate monthly pension (EPS) - Form 5IF: To claim insurance up to Rs 7 lakh (EDLI) Step 5: Upload the required documents You must upload scanned copies of the following documents: - Death Certificate - Cancelled Cheque: Clearly displaying the nominee's name and bank account number - Photograph: A passport-sized photo of the nominee Step 6: E-Sign and submit Finally, digitally sign the form using Aadhaar-based e-Sign and submit it. After submission, you will receive an acknowledgement number, which you can use to monitor the status.
