When a PF Member Dies: The Family's Claim Checklist
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When a member dies, the family can claim three things: the PF balance (Form 20), the pension (Form 10D: widow, children or other eligible family) and EDLI insurance of up to ₹7 lakh (Form 5IF). If the member had filed e-nomination, the nominee can claim all three online from the member portal.
What the family can claim
| Benefit | Old form | Who gets it |
|---|---|---|
| PF balance | Form 20 | Nominees in their shares; else family members |
| Monthly pension | Form 10D | Spouse until death or remarriage, up to two children until 25, orphans, or nominee or dependent parents |
| EDLI insurance | Form 5IF | Nominee or family; up to ₹7 lakh |
Online or offline?
Member had filed e-nomination
No e-nomination
File the paper forms at the regional office through the last employer (or directly if the employer has closed), with the death certificate, the claimant's ID and bank details, and proof of relationship. Without any family, legal heirs need a succession certificate.
Documents to collect
- Death certificate.
- Claimant's Aadhaar and bank details (cancelled cheque).
- Member's UAN or PF number; last employer's details.
- Proof of relationship, and guardianship papers for minor children.
Pension details: family pension. Insurance: EDLI.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a time limit for the family to claim?
Claim as soon as you can. Money not claimed for long can become inoperative and stop earning interest, and delays make paperwork harder.
The member had no nomination. Can the family still claim?
Yes. Family members claim under the scheme's rules; without family, legal heirs claim with a succession document.
Sources
- EPFO member portal (online death claims, Forms 10D, 20 and 5IF), accessed 5 Nov 2026.
- EPFO: Wage ceiling FAQs (family pension and EDLI benefits).