If you have an EPF account and have worked for a few years, you may have heard about Form 10C.
This form is important for employees who want to withdraw their pension amount or obtain a Scheme Certificate under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS).
Many EPF subscribers are unaware that a portion of their employer’s contribution goes into the pension fund.
Knowing when and how to use Form 10C can help you access these benefits when needed.
What Is Form 10C?
Under the EPF system, employers contribute 12% of an employee’s basic salary to the provident fund.
Out of this contribution, 8.33% is deposited into the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS), which helps provide pension benefits after retirement.
Form 10C is used for:
Withdrawing pension benefits in eligible cases
Obtaining a Scheme Certificate
Claiming benefits after leaving a job under certain conditions
Employees may also use it in situations such as prolonged unemployment, specific emergencies, or when switching jobs.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for Form 10C?
EPFO has laid down different eligibility conditions for Form 10C.
Employees With Less Than 10 Years of Service
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.
Employees Who Completed 10 Years of Service
You may apply for a Scheme Certificate if:
You completed 10 years of service and are below 50 years of age.
You are between 50 and 58 years old and do not want to receive a reduced pension.
Family Members of a Deceased Employee
The family, nominee, or legal heir can apply if:
The employee passed away after turning 58 years old.
The employee had not completed 10 years of eligible service.
What Benefits Can You Receive?
The benefit depends on your eligibility category.
Withdrawal Benefit
Employees who fall under the first category can apply to withdraw eligible pension benefits.
Family members of eligible deceased employees can also claim withdrawal benefits.
Scheme Certificate
Employees who have completed 10 years of service but are not yet eligible for pension can obtain a Scheme Certificate.
This certificate helps preserve pensionable service for future use.
Pension Through Form 10D
If an employee is willing to accept a reduced pension before age 58, they can apply through Form 10D instead of Form 10C.
Similarly, employees who leave service because of permanent disability can apply for a monthly disability pension through Form 10D.
Why Is a Scheme Certificate Important?
A Scheme Certificate offers valuable long-term benefits.
If you join another organization in the future, your previous service period can be added to your new service period.
This helps calculate your total pension benefits more accurately.
It also protects your family’s interests.
If you pass away before the age of 58 and have a valid Scheme Certificate, your family may become eligible for pension-related benefits.
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 (for Scheme Certificate applications)
Death certificate of the member (if applicable)
Succession certificate for legal heirs
Other supporting documents requested by EPFO
How to Apply for Form 10C Online
EPFO allows members to submit Form 10C online through its e-Sewa portal.
Follow these simple steps:
Step 1
Log in to the EPFO Member Portal using your UAN, password, and captcha code.
Step 2
Go to the Online Services menu and select Claim (Form-31, 19, 10C & 10D).
Step 3
Verify your personal details and enter the last four digits of your bank account.
Step 4
Accept the declaration by clicking Yes.
Step 5
Click Proceed for Online Claim.
Step 6
Choose the relevant option:
Withdraw PF Only (Form 19)
Withdraw Pension Only (Form 10C)
Step 7
Fill in the required details and submit the claim.
Step 8
Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
Step 9
Submit the application.
Once the claim is successfully submitted, you will receive an SMS confirmation.
After verification and processing by EPFO, the approved amount will be credited directly to your bank account.
Final Thoughts
Form 10C is an important facility for EPF members who want to claim pension-related benefits or preserve their service history through a Scheme Certificate.
Whether you have left your job, completed eligible service, or need to claim benefits under special circumstances, understanding Form 10C can help you make the most of your EPF and pension savings.
