Many EPF subscribers are unaware that they can claim certain pension-related benefits before retirement under specific conditions.
For this, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) provides a special application called Form 10C.
This form is used to withdraw pension benefits under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS) or to obtain a Scheme Certificate, depending on the member’s eligibility.
If you have worked in an EPF-covered organization and want to understand whether you can claim pension benefits or apply for a Scheme Certificate, here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Form 10C?
Whenever an employee contributes to EPF, the employer’s contribution is divided into two parts.
Out of the employer’s 12% contribution:
8.33% goes to the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS)
The remaining amount is credited to the EPF account
Form 10C allows eligible members to withdraw the pension amount accumulated under EPS or obtain a Scheme Certificate for future pension benefits.
This option can be useful in situations such as unemployment, career breaks, or other financial needs.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for Form 10C?
EPFO has specified different categories of members who can apply.
Category 1: Members Eligible for Pension Withdrawal
You can apply if:
You left your job before completing 10 years of service.
You reached the age of 58 before completing 10 years of eligible service.
Category 2: Members Eligible for a Scheme Certificate
You can apply for a Scheme Certificate if:
You completed 10 years of service but are below 50 years of age.
You are between 50 and 58 years old and do not want to receive a reduced pension.
Category 3: Family Members of a Deceased Subscriber
Family members, nominees, or legal heirs can apply if:
The EPF member passed away after turning 58 years old.
The member had not completed 10 years of eligible service.
What Benefits Can You Get?
The benefit depends on your eligibility category.
Withdrawal Benefit
Members who fall under Category 1 can apply for withdrawal benefits.
The family, nominee, or legal heir of a deceased member under Category 3 can also claim withdrawal benefits.
Scheme Certificate
Members under Category 2 can receive a Scheme Certificate instead of a withdrawal benefit.
The certificate helps preserve pension service records for future use.
Disability Pension
If a member leaves employment due to total and permanent disability, they can apply for a monthly disability pension through Form 10D instead of Form 10C.
Why Is a Scheme Certificate Important?
A Scheme Certificate offers several long-term benefits.
If you join another EPF-covered organization in the future, your previous service period can be added to your new service period.
This helps improve your pension eligibility and benefits later.
Additionally:
If the member dies before turning 58, the family may become eligible for a pension.
If the member survives and does not take up another job, withdrawal benefits may be available later.
Documents Required for Form 10C
Before submitting your application, keep the following documents ready:
Copy of a cancelled or blank cheque
Birth certificates of children (if applying for a Scheme Certificate)
Death certificate of the member (if applicable)
Succession certificate (for legal heirs)
Re 1 revenue stamp if withdrawal benefits are being credited through a bank account
How to Apply for Form 10C Online
EPFO allows members to submit Form 10C online through its e-Sewa portal.
Follow these steps:
Step 1
Visit the EPFO e-Sewa portal and log in using:
UAN
Password
Captcha code
Step 2
Go to Online Services and click on Claim (Form-31, 19, 10C & 10D).
Step 3
Verify your personal details and enter the last four digits of your bank account number.
Step 4
Accept the Certificate of Undertaking by clicking Yes.
Step 5
Click Proceed for Online Claim.
Step 6
Your PAN, mobile number, and UAN details will appear automatically.
Step 7
Select the appropriate claim option:
Form 19 for PF withdrawal
Form 10C for pension withdrawal
Step 8
Fill in the required details and submit the application.
Step 9
Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number and complete the verification process.
Step 10
Once the claim is submitted successfully, you will receive an SMS confirmation.
After EPFO processes the request, the eligible amount will be directly credited to your bank account.
Final Takeaway
Form 10C is an important facility for EPF members who wish to withdraw pension benefits or preserve their pension service through a Scheme Certificate.
Before applying, make sure you understand your eligibility and keep all required documents ready.
Since the entire process can now be completed online, eligible members can submit their claims without visiting an EPFO office, making the process faster and more convenient.
