New Delhi, Oct. 14 -- There can be situations when you need to access your retirement savings before exiting the workforce, especially if you do not have enough money set aside for emergencies. These could include funding medical expenses, a family member's education or marriage, or even getting your house renovated.

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has simplified the rules governing advances from the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF), making it easier for subscribers to access their retirement savings to meet essential expenses.

Under the revised framework, introduced through the EPF Scheme, 2026, partial withdrawals have been classified into three categories: essential needs, housing-related needs and special circumstan...