The Employees' Provident Funds Organisation (EPFO) on April 16, 2024, announced an increase in the qualifying limit for auto claims processing under Paragraph 68J to Rs 1 lakh. The previous limit was Rs 50,000. This move allows EPF members to apply for premature withdrawal or advances to cover their own and their dependents' select medical costs. Under Paragraph 68J of the EPF Scheme, members can request a premature withdrawal from the fund for specific medical treatments, which include hospitalisation for one month or longer, major surgery in a hospital, or conditions such as Tuberculosis, leprosy, paralysis, cancer, mental illness, or a heart condition. “This is to inform you that the Competent Authority has approved the limit of auto claim settlements under para 68J from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh and the same was also deployed in the application software on April 10, 2024. This is for information and further necessary action of all,” EPFO said in the circular. Subscribers can claim for withdrawal of 6 months’ basic wages and DA (or employee share with interest) up to Rs 1 lakh, whichever is lower.