Have you checked out the latest Employees Provident Fund (EPF) Account 3?
In case you missed it, EPF has recently revamped its system and introduced a new Account 3 (Fleksibel) for members below 55 years old. This new account offers members the flexibility to withdraw funds whenever they need it. Account 3, which was launched on May 11th, will start from a balance of RM0. EPF members also have the option for a one-time transfer to shift funds from Account 2 (Sejahtera) to Account 3 (Fleksibel).
Read: EPF Account 3 Launches This May: What You Need to Know
However, despite the promise of flexible withdrawals, reports have surfaced claiming that members can only withdraw up to RM250 per day. But is this claim accurate?
How To Withdraw Funds From Account 3?
EPF members may withdraw funds from Account 3 if there's sufficient balance. Account 3 starts with an initial balance of RM0, accumulating savings from subsequent contributions. Under the new restructuring, monthly EPF contributions are allocated as follows: 75% to Account 1 (Retirement), 15% to Account 2 (Well-being), and 10% to Account 3 (Flexi).
The minimum withdrawal amount is RM50, and applications can be made online via i-Akaun on the app, available on major app stores. For withdrawals exceeding RM250, an eKYC process is required, accessible online. If unable to complete eKYC online, verification can be done at EPF offices or Self-Service Terminals (SST) using thumbprints.
To do so, EPF has released a simple guide that users can follow:
Step 1: Login to your KWSP i-Akaun.
Step 2: Tap withdrawal and select withdraw your savings.
Step 3: Select Akaun Fleksible and select withdraw now.
Step 4: Enter the desired amount that you want to withdraw then select continue.
Step 5: Select & update your banking details and select continue. Do note that the bank needs to be registered under your name.
Step 6: Read through the Members Declaration and select Accept to continue.
Step 7: Enter the TAC number and you’ll be directed to a confirmation page indicating your application success.
Withdrawals from Account 3 don't necessitate any additional documentation, yet an operational bank account is necessary to facilitate the payment process. While physical presence for identity verification at offices isn't mandatory due to the availability of online options, this is contingent upon your withdrawal records and the sum requested, provided it's within RM30,000. In cases where there's no prior withdrawal history or if the bank account details differ, identity verification can be completed through two alternative methods:
- Thumbprint verification via Self-Service Terminal (SST) at any EPC office, for withdrawal application amount of more than RM10,000, OR
- Online verification, subject to withdrawal application amount of less than RM10,000.
If you've requested the one-time transfer of funds from Account 2 (Sejahtera) to Account 3 (Fleksibel), EPF has indicated that it will take 3-5 business days.
For those with enough funds in Account 3 who have applied for flexible withdrawal, the payment will be transferred to your designated bank account within 7 business days upon approval of the application.
Transferring Funds Into Account 3 Using The i-Akaun App
Aside from withdrawing funds from Account 3, there's also the option of executing a one-time transfer from Account 2 to the recently established account. To initiate this transfer, simply click on "Learn More" under the banner titled "Akaun Fleksibel: Meet today’s goals, shape tomorrow’s dreams".
Once you've accessed the introduction to the new structure, proceed by clicking "Next" and then the "Transfer Now" button. Following this, you'll encounter an important reminder that must be acknowledged before proceeding with the transaction.
Within the designated one-time transfer window, you have the flexibility to transfer funds from Account 2 to either Account 1 or Account 3. Additionally, you'll receive a detailed comparison of your Account 1, 2, and 3 balances before and after the transaction. Please be aware that EPF regulations prohibit users from transferring funds from Account 1 to any other accounts.
Furthermore, it's important to note that users do not have the option to select the amount of money they wish to transfer to Account 3, as it is predetermined by the system. Following this, you'll be prompted to finalize the Member's Declaration and click "Accept" after reviewing the terms. Finally, please allow for a processing time of approximately 3 to 5 working days before the transfer is completed.
While it's now possible to withdraw funds from Account 3, it's not recommended unless absolutely necessary. Given the current economic conditions, with the cost of living nearing an all-time high, many Malaysians are diligently saving and seeking additional sources of income whenever possible.
In our opinion and coming from MYC! CEO, Jason Ko, who is an ex-investment banker, he says that withdrawing funds from EPF Account 3 should be based on careful considerations of affordability and should only occur in life and death situations. He advocates for keeping wealth where it generates the highest interest, as deferred expenses can accumulate significantly over time. He emphasizes the principle with a quote: "if you never see it, you never have it," suggesting that out-of-sight funds help in wealth accumulation.
EPF withdrawals, however, are often spent on non-essential items such as gifts for family or holidays based on a few studies. Referencing the chart above on Malaysians' financial self-sufficiency, it's clear that a significant portion of financial challenges arise from inadequate financial assets. The chart reveals that 65% of EPF members have savings of less than RM50,000, and that 50% of former EPF members exhaust their savings within five years, highlighting the urgency for better financial planning and restraint in fund usage.
Ultimately, the decision rests with you. However, if you lack the means to utilise the funds, it's wise to save them. We don't pass judgment on how you choose to allocate your money, but we're always here to lend an ear when others find themselves in financial distress.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media & various cross-references for context.
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