**EPFO Takes Strong Action to Curb Corruption and Improve Services**
**New Delhi:** The Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has announced a major initiative to eliminate corruption within its system. This step follows numerous complaints on social media, where users alleged that certain EPFO officials were demanding bribes to process PF claims.
Many users reported that their applications were rejected without explanation, while others claimed that work only progressed after paying money under the table.
In a firm statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), EPFO reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards bribery and corruption. The organization emphasized that all services are completely free, and no one should pay even a single rupee to get their work done.
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### How to File a Complaint if Asked for a Bribe
EPFO has advised individuals who are asked to pay a bribe for services such as claim settlement, registration, or any other assistance to immediately file a complaint. Complaints can be submitted to the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) or the Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) of EPFO.
The organization has warned that strict action will be taken against any employee caught demanding or accepting bribes.
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### Where and How to Complain?
To make it easier for users, EPFO has provided clear complaint options:
– **Online:** File a complaint through the official portal at [www.portal.cvc.gov.in](https://www.portal.cvc.gov.in)
– **Offline:** Send a complaint letter via courier to the postal address mentioned in EPFO’s official social media announcement.
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### Major Changes Recently Made in EPFO
EPFO has introduced several significant changes aimed at making its services faster and smoother:
– **Instant Withdrawals:** Users can now withdraw up to Rs 1 lakh instantly using UPI or ATM, which proves helpful during emergencies.
– **Auto-Settlement Limit Increased:** The auto-settlement limit for claims has been raised from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. This means smaller claims will be processed automatically without needing physical verification.
– **Reduced Documentation:** The number of documents required for PF withdrawal has been reduced from 27 to just 18, shortening the processing time to only 3–4 days.
– **Higher Withdrawal for Home Purchase:** Members with more than 3 years of employment can now withdraw up to 90% of their PF balance for buying a house or paying EMIs.
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### EPFO 3.0: The Upcoming Upgrade
A new version of the EPFO system, **EPFO 3.0**, is set to launch soon. It will bring several new features including:
– Integration of UPI payments
– A dedicated mobile app
– ATM card withdrawals
– Real-time service tracking
These enhancements aim to provide a better, more transparent user experience for all EPFO members.
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Stay tuned for more updates, and remember: EPFO services are free, and any demand for bribes should be reported immediately.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/epfo-cracks-down-on-corruption-new-guidelines-alert-staff-subscribers-heres-what-you-need-to-know