No more long queues! 5 reasons why EPFO 3.0 will transform your retirement plans

Long queues, time-consuming documentation, rejections in requests, and constant delays, these are typically the images that come to mind when one considers taking advantage of your Employees' Provident Fund (EPFO) corpus in India.

All of this could be a thing of the past soon. Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya made the announcement of the imminent arrival of EPFO 3.0, a revolutionary overhaul that will introduce banking-like convenience to EPFO subscribers in millions.

What's the big deal about EPFO 3.0?

The big buzz around EPFO 3.0 is the assurance to withdraw money from ATMs, a facility which would bring a much needed change. Union labour minister Mansukh Mandaviya made the announcement on March 6 that EPFO will soon launch the EPFO 3.0 version.

This will allow subscribers to withdraw funds from ATMs along with several other glaring features. He made the comments after inaugurating EPFO’s office complex of Telangana Zonal Office.

This development will provide convenience in withdrawing EPFO members' money. The present process normally includes visits to EPFO offices, submission of physical forms, and waiting in queue. It takes a lot of effort and is a time consuming process currently.

From passbooks to ATMs: A retirement revolution on the cards?

The government’s aspiration, according to Mandaviya, is that the EPFO operates as hassle free as an ordinary banking account. Members, armed with the Universal Account Number (UAN), may be in a position to manage their money directly, not having to look to employers or jump through lengthy bureaucratic loops. The details are still to be revealed and more information on the same is awaited.

How does this impact you? A simple guide

• ATM withdrawals: A major advantage will be the facility of taking cash from ATMs.
• Direct access: This will facilitate direct management of your account. It will also help in effectively turning the entire process digital by using documents as such Aadhaar Card, PAN etc.
• Reduced dependence on employer: This will result in reduced dependence on employers for withdrawals and other requests.
• Digital transformation: More streamlined processes for authorising payments, paying out claims, and changing personal data.
• Increased efficiency: This will act as an alternative to avoid paperwork and delays in processing and provide quicker resolution with regards to your EPFO related financial issues.

Important to remember retirement savings are for the long-term

While ease of access to EPFO money will certainly be welcomed, it is still important to be careful. Keep in mind that your EPFO savings are to ensure financial independence in retirement. Regular or unplanned withdrawals will significantly drain your long-term savings and compromise your future finances.

You should hence always focus on saving and investing in your EPFO funds with a long term vision and prudence. Lastly, if in doubt always reach out to your financial adviser and clearly discuss your financial goals, aspirations and post the same take informed financial decisions.