The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced major changes to its withdrawal framework under EPFO 3.0, aimed at improving access, speed, and transparency for over seven crore members across India. The revised rules were approved during the 238th meeting of the Central Board of Trustees, chaired by Union Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya.

Under the new norms, members can withdraw up to 100% of their EPF balance, including both employee and employer contributions, subject to conditions. Thirteen earlier withdrawal rules have been consolidated into three broad categories—essential needs, housing needs, and special circumstances. Education withdrawals are now allowed up to 10 times and marriage withdrawals up to five times, with a minimum service period of 13 months for partial withdrawals. In special cases, members are not required to state reasons, though at least 25% of the balance must remain in the account.

The reforms also introduce automatic claim settlement under the Vishwas Scheme, reduced penal damages for delayed payments, and doorstep Digital Life Certificate services for pensioners.

Commenting on the update, Anoop C Nair, Head of HR at Indel Money, said the changes bring faster access, digital efficiency, and long-term retirement safeguards. While concerns remain around unemployment-linked withdrawal limits, the reforms are positioned as a balance between short-term needs and retirement security.

A recent Economic Times report highlights how choosing the right gold loan repayment method can significantly reduce the overall cost for borrowers. While gold loans are widely used for their quick disbursal and lower interest rates, repayment structure plays a major role in how much interest a customer finally pays.

The article explains three common gold loan repayment options—regular EMI, bullet repayment, and overdraft-style repayment. EMI-based repayment suits borrowers with steady monthly income, as both principal and interest are paid in fixed instalments. Bullet repayment allows customers to pay interest periodically or at maturity, with the principal settled at the end, making it useful for short-term needs. The overdraft method offers higher flexibility, as interest is charged only on the amount utilised, helping disciplined borrowers lower interest outgo.

The report advises borrowers to assess cash flow, income stability, and loan tenure before choosing a repayment plan. Paying interest on time and reducing principal early can also bring down the total cost.