Form 10C
What is Form 10C?
Form 10C is a form under the Employee Pension Scheme (EPS) used to claim withdrawal benefits or request a Scheme Certificate when an employee leaves an organization before completing 10 years of service.
It is commonly used when employees transition between companies or exit the workforce and requires EPFO processing for final settlement.
In many cases, individuals refer to it as Form 10C in EPFO, since it is filed directly through the EPFO portal or via the employer. This form ensures that employees retain their pension-related records or receive eligible withdrawal benefits as per EPS rules.
TL;DR
- Form 10C is used under EPFO to claim withdrawal benefits from the Pension Scheme.
- Eligible employees include those who worked for more than 6 months but less than 10 years.
- It impacts pension withdrawal, scheme certificates, and EPF continuity.
- Documents include Aadhaar, bank details, employment proof, and EPF numbers.
- Employers can guide, verify details, and support submission.
- After submission, EPFO processes the claim, following the standard form 10c claim settlement time.
Who Can File Form 10C and When?
Eligibility Based on Years of Service
Employees who have worked for more than 6 months but less than 10 years under the EPS can file Form 10C. Those with over 10 years of service must opt for a Scheme Certificate instead of withdrawal.
When It Should Be Filed
Form 10C is generally filed when:
- An employee resigns from an organization
- An employee changes jobs and wants a Scheme Certificate
- An employee exits the workforce temporarily or permanently
- EPF accounts need to be transferred or formalized
Specific Eligibility Notes
- Employees below 58 years can apply.
- If service is less than 6 months, Form 10C is not applicable.
- If an employee has already claimed pension benefits, Form 10C is not needed.
Understanding eligibility helps avoid delays and rejections during the claim process.
How Does Form 10C Affect Employee Provident Fund Benefits?
Withdrawable Pension Benefits
Filing Form 10C allows eligible employees to withdraw the EPS amount accumulated during their service. This is useful for those leaving employment before completing 10 years.
Scheme Certificate Issuance
Employees seeking to carry forward pensionable service to their next job can request a Scheme Certificate instead of withdrawal. This ensures continuity of pension benefits.
Impact on Final EPF Settlement
Form 10C is often filed along with Form 19 (EPF withdrawal). Together, they complete the employee's full PF settlement process.
Effect on Future Pension Entitlements
Claiming withdrawal via Form 10C reduces future pension amounts, while opting for a Scheme Certificate preserves pension years for future service calculations.
What Documents Are Required to Submit Form 10C?
1. Personal Identification Documents
- Aadhaar card
- PAN (if applicable)
- Proof of address
These documents verify the identity of the claimant and ensure EPFO validation.
2. Bank Account Details
A canceled cheque or copy of the passbook is required to ensure the pension withdrawal amount is deposited correctly.
3. Employment Details
- Establishment ID
- PF account number
- Date of joining and leaving
- Employer's name
These details confirm employment duration and EPF contributions.
4. Scheme Certificate or Birth Certificate (when applicable)
If applying for the Scheme Certificate, proof of family details and dates of birth may be necessary.
Can Employers Help Employees With Form 10C?
1. Providing Accurate Employment Records
Employers must ensure all joining/leaving dates and PF contributions are correctly updated on the EPFO portal.
2. Assisting With the Filing Process
HR teams can guide employees on the procedure, required documents, and submission steps. This reduces confusion, especially for first-time filers.
3. Verifying and Approving Details
Employers may need to approve certain details on the EPFO portal before the claim moves forward.
4. Supporting Claim Tracking
HR departments often help employees track application status and address EPFO queries.
What Happens After Form 10C Is Submitted?
EPFO Verification and Processing
After submission, EPFO verifies employment history, contributions, identity details, and eligibility. Any discrepancies may result in delay or rejection.
Claim Settlement Timeline
The form 10c claim settlement time generally ranges from 15 to 30 days, depending on EPFO workload and document accuracy. Online claims are typically processed faster than offline submissions.
Payment or Certificate Issuance
- If withdrawing pension amount: Funds are transferred directly to the registered bank account.
- If applying for a Scheme Certificate: EPFO issues the certificate, which the employee can use for future employment.
Status Tracking
Employees can track claim status on the EPFO portal through their UAN login. Timely updates help them stay informed.
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