Recent changes proposed by the Ministry of Labour to the rules governing withdrawal of money from the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) have drawn undeserved flak from subscribers. A careful reading suggests that these changes will indeed enable EPF subscribers to more easily access their funds. It may also improve the claims settlement experience of members by ensuring continuity of UANs (Universal Account Numbers) and ensure healthier balances at retirement.

The changes being proposed are threefold. One, rules that govern partial withdrawals from EPF accounts are being materially simplified. Presently, members are allowed to make partial withdrawals of their own contributions from EPF for needs such as housing, land purchase, marriage and education up to certain limits, after completing fi

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