Introduction
The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) scheme is not just a retirement savings program—it also ensures strong social security protection for the family in case a member dies while in service. Many families are unaware of the significant financial support available through PF withdrawal, monthly pension, and insurance coverage under EPFO.
This guide explains all EPF benefits payable on death, eligibility conditions, and steps the family must follow to claim them smoothly.
1.Provident Fund (PF) Settlement after Death
When an EPF member dies while in service, the nominated family members become eligible for full PF settlement.
What the Family Receives
✔ Employee’s PF contribution
✔ Employer’s PF contribution
✔ Compounded interest up to the date of settlement
This amount is usually claimed through Form 20 by the nominee or legal heir.
Key Points
• Funds go to the EPF nominee registered on the member’s UAN portal.
• If no nomination is available, the legal heir process applies, which may take longer.
2.Monthly Pension under EPS for Family Members
Under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS-95), the family receives a monthly pension after the member’s death.
2.1 Widow Pension (Spouse Pension)
The widow/widower receives pension for a lifetime, starting from the date of the member’s death.
Eligibility
Member must have completed at least 1 month of service with EPS contribution
Death must occur while in service
2.2 Children Pension
In addition to widow pension, two children of the deceased member receive pension.
Key Provisions
• Payable to two oldest surviving children
• Paid up to age 25 years
• If one child turns 25, pension shifts to the next child (if any)
• Amount is 25% of widow pension per child
• Special Case: Disabled Child
A permanently disabled child receives monthly pension for lifetime, in addition to children pension.
2.3 Pension to Dependent Parents (Updated as requested)
If the member dies unmarried, pension is payable to dependent parents in the following order:
• Father (first priority)
• After father’s death → pension transfers to mother
⚠ Important rule:
If mother applies first, the pension will NOT transfer to father after her death.
Therefore, the father must apply first to maintain this order of eligibility.
2.4 Pension Even When Death Occurs Away from Service (New Section Added)
Pension may be available even if the member was not actively working at the time of death.
Family is eligible for pension IF:
The member dies within 36 months from the last EPF/EPS contribution
The PF and EPS accounts are not yet settled
In such cases, the family is treated as if the member died while in service, making them eligible for EPS family pension.
3.EDLI Insurance (Employee Deposit Linked Insurance)
This is the life insurance component of EPFO. It provides a lump-sum payout to the nominee on death while in service.
Insurance Benefits
✔ Guaranteed minimum ₹2.5 lakh
✔ Maximum ₹7 lakh (depending on salary and last 12 months’ PF contributions)
This amount is claimed using Form 5IF.
4.What You Must Do to Ensure Your Family Gets These Benefits
4.1 Become an EPF Member
Ensure your employer registers you under EPF and generates your UAN.
4.2 Check Monthly EPF Contributions
Login to EPFO portal or UMANG app to verify:
✔ PF is deposited every month
✔ EPS contribution is shown
✔ KYC is updated
Regular contribution ensures family eligibility for pension and EDLI.
4.3 Complete Your EPF Nomination Online
This is the most important step. Without nomination, family members face complex legal procedures.
Steps to Complete Nomination
• Login to UAN portal
• Go to Manage → E-Nomination
• Add family details (Aadhaar, bank details, date of birth)
• Upload photographs
• Allocate percentage share
• Submit and authenticate via OTP
A valid nomination ensures quick claim processing without delays.
5.How Family Can Claim EPF, Pension & Insurance
Documents Required
• Death certificate
• Aadhaar of claimant
• Bank passbook
• Nomination proof (if available)
• Form 20 (PF)
• Form 10D (Pension)
• Form 5IF (EDLI Insurance)
Claims can be filed online if the member had updated his KYC and nomination.
Conclusion
EPFO provides one of India’s strongest social security protections to families during difficult times. By understanding these benefits and keeping EPF details updated, you can ensure that your family receives financial support through:
• Full PF settlement
• Lifetime pension for spouse and children
• Up to ₹7 lakh EDLI insurance
Take simple steps like regular EPF contribution and online nomination to secure your family’s future.