Overlapping Employment Dates Won’t Hamper EPF Transfer Claims, EPFO Clarifies

If you recently switched jobs and are concerned that your Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) transfer would be rejected because of overlapping dates of employment, here’s some relief. The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has clarified that overlapping dates of employment would no longer result in rejection of your EPF transfer claims.

Why Were Claims Rejected Earlier?

Over the last few months, many employees were facing issues while transferring their EPF from one organisation to another. Regional Provident Fund Offices (RPFOs) were rejecting or sending back transfer claims if the service records of the employee indicated overlapping dates for two jobs. The overlap typically occurs when an individual joins a new firm before making a formal exit from the old one. Such overlaps were being considered as errors or disqualifications, thus stalling the transfer process.

What Has EPFO Changed

On May 20, 2025 EPFO released a circular to clarify the confusion. According to the circular, overlapping service periods must not be a cause for automatic rejection of transfer claims. 

This new directive by EPFO will greatly aid employees who switch jobs frequently or have coinciding joining and leaving dates. The new directions instruct the EPFO offices that process the EPF transfers, referred to as “transferor offices”, with the following directives:

• Process PF transfer claims even in case of overlap of employment dates.

• Only seek clarifications if the overlap appears suspicious, faulty or out-of-place.

• Verify all details properly as per earlier instructions to avoid mistakes.

What Should Employees Do

If you are thinking about transferring your EPF, you should do the following:

• Send your usual transfer claim form (Form 13), even if the end date of your previous job and the date of beginning of your new job coincide.

• Keep your documents ready, such as appointment letters and relieving letters, in case the RPFO requests evidence.

• Track the status of your claim online on the EPFO website if you feel that the process is delayed beyond the usual time.

Important Points to Remember

Overlapping dates of employment will no longer result in automatic rejection of EPF transfer claims. Ensure you submit clear and accurate documents to prevent delay. For any difficulties, use the EPFO grievance portal or contact the helpline number 1800-118-005.