With a view to  support its subscribers during the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic, Employees Provident Fund Organisation, EPFO has now allowed its members to avail second non-refundable COVID-19 advance.

The provision for special withdrawal to meet the financial need of members during pandemic was introduced in March 2020, under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY). Ministry of Labour and Employment in a statement said that the COVID-19 advance has been a great help to the EPF members during the pandemic, especially for those having monthly wages of less than 15 thousand rupees.

As on date, EPFO has settled more than 76.31 lakh COVID-19 advance claims thereby disbursing a total of  over 18 thousand 698 crore rupees.  Members who have already availed the first COVID-19 advance can now opt for a second advance also. The provision and process for withdrawal of second COVID-19 advance is same as in the case of first advance.

The Ministry said, considering urgent need of members for financial support in these trying times, it has been decided to accord top priority to COVID-19 claims. EPFO is committed to settle these claims within three days of their receipt.