EPF Withdrawal Guide 2026: How and When to Withdraw from KWSP
14 October 2026You can withdraw from EPF (KWSP) before age 55 only for set purposes: any time from Akaun Fleksibel (minimum RM50), or from Akaun Sejahtera for housing, education, healthcare, Hajj or the one-off age 50 withdrawal. Full withdrawal opens at 55 and 60, or earlier if you leave Malaysia for good, become incapacitated or pass away.
Under EPF's account framework, monthly employee and employer contributions are split across three sub-accounts: Akaun Persaraan (75%), Akaun Sejahtera (15%), and Akaun Fleksibel (10%). While Akaun Fleksibel can be accessed at any time, pre-retirement withdrawals from Akaun Sejahtera require specific supporting documents and eligibility criteria.
This guide covers every EPF withdrawal type, with the 2026 rules, limits and how to apply for each.
What are all the EPF withdrawal types? (2026 summary table)
There are three groups: Akaun Fleksibel withdrawals (any time), purpose-based withdrawals from Akaun Sejahtera before 55, and full withdrawals at 55/60 or on leaving Malaysia, incapacitation or death. The table below summarises each one.
| Withdrawal type | Which account | Who qualifies | How much | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Akaun Fleksibel | Akaun Fleksibel | Malaysians and non-Malaysians below 55 | Any amount from RM50, up to your balance | KWSP i-Akaun app, i-Akaun (Member) web portal or EPF office; no documents. Thumbprint check may be needed above RM3,000 |
| Education | Akaun Sejahtera | Below 55; for yourself, spouse, children or parents | Tuition fees/outstanding education loan or entire Akaun Sejahtera balance, whichever is lower | Apply with offer letter and fee statement or receipt |
| Age 50 | Akaun Sejahtera | Aged 50 to 54; once only | Part or all of Akaun Sejahtera | i-Akaun app/web portal (partial); entire balance via SST at EPF offices only |
| Age 55 | Akaun 55 | Aged 55 to 59 | Full, partial, i-Emas monthly payments, or a mix | i-Akaun or EPF office with MyKad and bank details |
| Age 60 | Akaun 55 + Akaun Emas | Aged 60 and above | Full, partial, i-Emas monthly payments, or a mix | i-Akaun or EPF office with MyKad and bank details |
| Hajj | Akaun Sejahtera | Malaysian Muslims below 55 selected by Tabung Haji; once in a lifetime | Up to RM10,000 or Akaun Sejahtera balance, whichever is lower | EPF office with MyKad and LTH "SELECTED" offer letter |
| Buy or build a house | Akaun Sejahtera | Below 55, at least RM500 in Akaun Sejahtera | Price minus loan + 10% of price, or Akaun Sejahtera balance, whichever is lower | i-Akaun with SPA/construction agreement and loan letter |
| Reduce/redeem housing loan | Akaun Sejahtera | Below 55, at least RM500; once a year | Outstanding loan or Akaun Sejahtera balance, whichever is lower (min. RM500) | i-Akaun with loan balance statement |
| Housing loan monthly instalment | Akaun Sejahtera | Below 55, at least RM600; non-Malaysians only if PR or member before 1 Aug 1998 | Min. RM100 a month for 6 months, up to the loan balance | i-Akaun or EPF office |
| Critical illness / medical equipment | Akaun Sejahtera | Below 55; for you or approved family members | Actual cost not covered by employer, or Akaun Sejahtera balance, whichever is lower | Apply with medical report and bills |
| Fertility treatment (IUI, IVF, ICSI) | Akaun Sejahtera | Below 55; legally married couples | Actual cost or Akaun Sejahtera balance, whichever is lower | With medical report and bills |
| i-Lindung (insurance/takaful) | Akaun Sejahtera, Akaun 55 or Akaun Emas | Malaysian members with a balance in those accounts | Premium/contribution of the chosen plan | Inside KWSP i-Akaun app or web portal |
| Savings above RM1.1 million (2026) | Akaun Fleksibel, then Sejahtera, then Persaraan | Below 55 with total savings above RM1.1 million | Only the amount above RM1.1 million | i-Akaun or EPF office |
| Incapacitation | All accounts | Below 60, unemployed, certified incapacitated and assessed by EPF medical board | Entire savings, plus RM5,000 benefit if eligible | EPF office with Form KWSP 9L and medical report |
| Leaving Malaysia | All accounts | Ex-citizens, ex-PRs, expatriates and foreign workers leaving for good | Entire savings | Form KWSP 9K with passport and proof of status |
| Death | All accounts | Nominee, or next of kin/administrator if no nomination | Nominated portion, or in stages if no nominee | Form KWSP 9KM with death certificate |
How are EPF savings split across the three accounts?
Since 11 May 2024, new contributions for members below 55 are split 75:15:10 across Akaun Persaraan, Akaun Sejahtera and Akaun Fleksibel. Each account has different withdrawal rules.
| Account Type | Allocation (%) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Account 1 (Akaun Persaraan) | 75 | Reserved for long-term retirement savings |
| Account 2 (Akaun Sejahtera) | 15 | Available for specific withdrawals such as housing, education, healthcare, etc |
| Account 3 (Akaun Fleksibel) | 10 | Allows withdrawals anytime for general financial needs |
How do Akaun Fleksibel (Account 3) withdrawals work?
If you are below 55, you can withdraw from Akaun Fleksibel at any time, from RM50 per application, with no supporting documents. Money is paid into your own bank account within three working days of approval.
Akaun Fleksibel (Account 3) allows members to withdraw savings anytime for financial needs. This initiative balances short-term liquidity with long-term retirement planning, providing flexibility without strict restrictions.
Eligibility for Akaun Fleksibel withdrawal
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Who can withdraw? | Malaysians & Non-Malaysians, active EPF members with contributions to Account 3, below 55 years old |
| Withdrawal limit | Maximum: Subject to available balance, Minimum: RM50 per transaction, Frequency: One withdrawal per day |
| Verification requirements | No documents needed. Identity is usually checked automatically through e-KYC. RM50 to RM3,000: no visit needed. RM3,000.01 to RM30,000: thumbprint at an EPF office or Self-Service Terminal (SST) only if you have no prior withdrawal record, your bank details have changed, or e-KYC fails. Above RM30,000: thumbprint verification required. |
| Payment method | Approved withdrawal amounts are credited directly into the member’s bank account within three working days of approval |
| Bank account requirements | The account must be active, in the member’s name, and not a joint or company account |
Other considerations
- No supporting documents are required, but an active bank account is needed.
- Thumbprint verification is needed for certain withdrawals.
- No cancellations: once an application is approved, it cannot be cancelled.
Can you withdraw EPF for education?
Yes. Members below 55 can use Akaun Sejahtera to pay tuition fees or an outstanding education loan for themselves, their spouse, children or parents, for a Certificate Level 3 (SKM 3), diploma or higher.
Members can withdraw savings from Akaun Sejahtera (Account 2) to cover education-related expenses. The withdrawal amount is subject to the total tuition fees or outstanding education loan, or the entire savings in Account 2, whichever is lower.
How much can you withdraw?
- If tuition fees or education loan amount is less than your savings in Akaun Sejahtera, you can only withdraw the exact fee/loan amount.
- If the balance in Akaun Sejahtera is lower than the required amount, you can withdraw the entire balance.
Eligible expenses covered by EPF education withdrawal
| Expense Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition fees & charges | Covers tuition fees imposed by the institution or the outstanding loan amount |
| Hostel & accommodation fees | Applicable for local and overseas study programs |
| One-way flight ticket | Only for first-year students studying abroad or in another state |
| Certificate Level 3 (SKM Level 3) | Withdrawal only applies to tuition fees and is subject to the total savings in Akaun Sejahtera |
Eligibility requirements
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Who can withdraw? | Malaysians & Non-Malaysians, Below 55 years old, Must have savings in Akaun Sejahtera |
| Study Level | Certificate Level 3 (SKM 3), diploma, or higher (academic, professional, skill-based, vocational) |
| Study Mode | Local institutions (full-time, part-time, distance learning, franchise programs) or overseas institutions (full-time only) |
| Financial Support | Must not receive full sponsorship or must have a partial sponsorship/loan |
| For dependents' education | Parents, spouse, and children (biological/adopted/stepchildren) can apply for their dependents' education fees |
| Education termination cases | If the member/dependent withdraws from studies, fails to graduate, or quits, all overdue fees must be settled within 3 years |
| Education loan settlement | Withdrawal can be used to settle the remaining education loan balance with the loan provider |
| Reimbursement | If you have already paid the fees, the receipt must be no more than one year old when you apply |
EPF Education withdrawal for tuition fees vs. study loan
| Categories | Tuition Fees | Study Loan |
|---|---|---|
| For member's own education | Withdraw to finance tuition fees | Withdraw to pay off outstanding education loan |
| For children's, spouse’s, or parents' education | Withdraw to pay their tuition fees | Withdraw to settle their outstanding education loan |
| Joint withdrawal for children’s education | Allowed (parents can jointly withdraw with their spouse) | Not applicable |
| Joint withdrawal for spouse’s education | Allowed (joint withdrawal with spouse) | Not applicable |
What can you withdraw from EPF at age 50?
Between 50 and 54, you can make one withdrawal of part or all of your Akaun Sejahtera savings. This withdrawal does not touch Akaun Persaraan.
When you reach the age of 50, you have the option to make a one-time partial withdrawal from Akaun Sejahtera to support your pre-retirement financial planning. This withdrawal provides members with early access to their retirement savings before reaching the official withdrawal age of 55.
Requirements
- Malaysians and Non-Malaysians
- Aged between 50 - 54
- Have savings in Akaun Sejahtera
You can apply through the KWSP i-Akaun app, the i-Akaun (Member) web portal or an EPF office. Withdrawing your entire Akaun Sejahtera balance can only be done at a Self-Service Terminal (SST) at an EPF office. Non-Malaysian members can apply on the app from October 2026.
What happens to your EPF at age 55?
At 55, all three accounts are combined into Akaun 55, and you can withdraw some or all of it at any time, or take monthly payments through i-Emas.
Upon reaching the age of 55, all contributions from Akaun Persaraan, Akaun Sejahtera, and Akaun Fleksibel will be consolidated into Akaun 55. Members can withdraw all or part of their savings at any time.
If you choose to continue working beyond the age of 55, any new contributions will go into Akaun Emas, which can only be withdrawn at age 60.
Any savings you leave in EPF continue to earn annual dividends. See EPF dividend rates by year for past payouts.
Requirements
- Malaysians and Non-Malaysians
- Aged between 55 - 59
- Having savings in Akaun 55
What can you withdraw?
| Withdrawal Eligibility | Malaysian | Non-Malaysian (Member before 1st August 1998) | Non-Malaysian (Member on / after 1st August 1998) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entire saving from Akaun 55 | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Partial withdrawal(no min. amount) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| *i-Emas (monthly payment)(Min. RM100/ month or RM1,200/ year for at least 12 months or until age 100) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Combination of partial and i-Emas | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Yearly dividend payment withdrawal(lump sum based on previous year’s savings) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| **Monthly dividend payment withdrawal | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| ***Transfer to appointed fund managers (FMIs); Application can be made anytime; Min. transferred amount is RM 1,000.00; Required to retain min. of RM 1,000.00 in Akaun 55 | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
*Payments will be credited on the 25th of each month. If the 25th falls on Saturday, Sunday or public holiday, the payment will be credited on the next business day
**Minimum withdrawal is RM600 (RM100 per month for at least 6 months). The minimum payment period is 6 months and maximum up to 12 months)
***Application through i-Akaun (Member). Transfer of withdrawal amount from Akaun 55 is only allowed to the appointed Fund Management Institutions (FMIs)
i-Legasi: since May 2026, members aged 55 and above with savings above the Adequate Savings level (RM650,000 at 60) can transfer the excess into the EPF accounts of their spouse or children, who must be below 60 and Malaysian citizens or PRs. This is a transfer, not a cash withdrawal.
What can you withdraw from EPF at age 60?
At 60, Akaun 55 and Akaun Emas are combined and you can withdraw all of it, part of it, or take i-Emas monthly payments.
The Age 60 Withdrawal is an extension of the Age 55 Withdrawal, catered for members who choose to continue working beyond 55 and retire later. Upon reaching age 60, all savings from Akaun 55 and Akaun Emas will be consolidated, and members can opt for a lump sum or partial withdrawal at any time to support their retirement.
Requirements
- Malaysians and Non-Malaysians
- Aged 60 and above
- Have savings with the EPF
What can you withdraw?
| Withdrawal Eligibility | Malaysian | Non-Malaysian (Member before 1st August 1998) | Non-Malaysian (Member on / after 1st August 1998) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entire savings from Akaun 55 | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Entire savings from Akaun Emas | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Partial withdrawal (no min. amount) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| *i-Emas (monthly payment) (Min. RM100/ month or RM1,200/ year for at least 12 months or until age 100) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Combination of partial and i-Emas | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Yearly dividend payment withdrawal(lump sum based on previous year’s savings) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| **Monthly dividend payment withdrawal | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| ***Transfer to appointed fund managers (FMIs); Application can be made anytime; Min. transferred amount is RM 1,000.00; Required to retain min. of RM 1,000.00 in Akaun 55 (if any)/Akaun Emas | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
*Payments will be credited on the 25th of each month. If the 25th falls on Saturday, Sunday or public holiday, the payment will be credited on the next business day
**Minimum withdrawal is RM600 (RM100 per month for at least 6 months). The minimum payment period is 6 months and maximum up to 12 months)
***Application through i-Akaun (Member). Transfer of withdrawal amount from Akaun 55 (if any)/Akaun Emas is only allowed to the appointed Fund Management Institutions (FMIs)
How much can you withdraw from EPF for Hajj?
From 1 January 2026, you can withdraw up to RM10,000 from Akaun Sejahtera for Hajj (up from RM3,000), or your Akaun Sejahtera balance if lower. EPF no longer checks your Tabung Haji balance first.
Muslim members who plan to perform Hajj can use their Akaun Sejahtera savings to supplement their Lembaga Tabung Haji (LTH) savings for hajj expenses. This withdrawal helps eligible members to cover the cost of their pilgrimage.
Requirements
- Malaysian citizen
- Below 55 years of age
- Selected for hajj by Lembaga Tabung Haji (LTH)
- Never applied for Hajj Withdrawal before (it is allowed once in a lifetime)
What can you withdraw?
Members can withdraw up to RM10,000 or the balance in Akaun Sejahtera, whichever is lower. There is no minimum amount.
Apply at any EPF office with your MyKad and the LTH offer letter showing "SELECTED". Complete applications are paid within seven working days. If you cancel or postpone your Hajj, the amount must be refunded to EPF. The RM10,000 limit applies only to new applications from January 2026; members who already made a Hajj withdrawal cannot top up.
How much EPF can you withdraw for a house?
For a purchase with a loan, you can withdraw the difference between the price and your loan, plus 10% of the price, capped at your Akaun Sejahtera balance. You can also use Akaun Sejahtera to reduce or redeem a housing loan or pay monthly instalments.
EPF allows members to withdraw funds to finance home purchases, loan repayments, and construction costs. However, all housing-related withdrawals are only permitted from Akaun Sejahtera. This means members must have sufficient savings in this account to qualify for any housing withdrawal. Below is a breakdown of the different types of EPF housing withdrawals, along with their key eligibility criteria and requirements.
Buying your first home? Our guide for first-time home buyers in Malaysia covers the other costs to plan for.
Types of housing withdrawal
| Withdrawal Type | Purpose | Eligibility Criteria | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buy House (Developer, Sub-sale, Auction Unit) | Purchase a residential home | Malaysians & Non-MalaysiansBelow 55 years oldMinimum RM500 balance | First-time withdrawal or previously withdrawn but sold the propertyApproved loan from a recognized lender OR self-financedPurchase must be for residential useAmount: price minus loan + 10% of price (self-financed: price + 10%), or Akaun Sejahtera balance, whichever is lower |
| Build House (With land purchase / On owned land) | Construct a house on owned or purchased land | Malaysians & Non-MalaysiansBelow 55 years oldMinimum RM500 balance | First-time withdrawal or previously withdrawn but sold the propertyApproved loan from a recognized lender OR self-financedConstruction agreement must be within 3 years of application |
| Housing Loan Monthly Instalment | Pay monthly instalments for an outstanding housing loan | Malaysians & Non-Malaysians (PR or EPF member before 1 Aug 1998)Below 55 years oldMinimum RM600 balance | The property must be under the applicant’s nameMust have an ongoing housing loan with an EPF-approved lenderMinimum RM100 a month for six months; limited to one house per member |
| Reduce/Redeem Housing Loan | Reduce or fully settle an existing housing loan | Malaysians & Non-MalaysiansBelow 55 years oldMinimum RM500 balance | Must be the registered owner of the propertyThe property must be used as collateralCan apply once a year from the last withdrawal date |
| Flexible Housing Withdrawal | Use future EPF savings to increase housing loan eligibility | Malaysians & PRsBelow 54 years oldHousing loan with EPF-approved lender | Can only be used for one house at a timeSavings set aside cannot be used for other withdrawals (e.g., education, health)Funds remain under member's ownership, and dividends continue to be credited |
| PR1MA Housing | Finance a PR1MA home purchase under Skim Pembiayaan Fleksibel (SPEF) | MalaysiansBelow 55 years oldPR1MA home buyer | Must have a housing loan under SPEFNever made a housing withdrawal before OR previously withdrawn but sold the propertyFunds will be directly disbursed to the financial institution |
Key considerations for EPF housing withdrawals
- All withdrawals are strictly from Akaun Sejahtera. Members cannot use Akaun Persaraan for any pre-retirement housing withdrawals.
- Joint Withdrawals: Members can apply individually or jointly with their spouse or family members to increase the withdrawal amount.
- Loan Refinancing: If the house has been refinanced, EPF uses the current outstanding loan balance.
- Withdrawal Limitations: The property must be a residential property in Malaysia. EPF withdrawals cannot be used for home renovations, third-home purchases or personal loans.
- Manual Applications: Certain property types, such as SOHO units, require manual applications at EPF counters.
Can you withdraw EPF for medical treatment?
Yes. Members below 55 can use Akaun Sejahtera for approved critical illnesses, medical equipment and fertility treatment, for themselves or approved family members. If you can no longer work because of illness or disability, you may be able to withdraw all your savings.
Healthcare costs can be a significant financial burden, especially for long-term treatments and critical illnesses. EPF allows withdrawals for medical expenses from Akaun Sejahtera, ensuring members can access funds for themselves and their dependents when facing health-related challenges. Below is a breakdown of the different types of healthcare withdrawals available under EPF.
Types of EPF withdrawals for healthcare
| Withdrawal Type | Purpose | Eligible Account | Eligibility Criteria | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Critical Illness Withdrawal | Covers medical expenses for approved illnesses, treatments, and medical equipment | Akaun Sejahtera | Malaysians & Non-MalaysiansBelow 55 years oldMedical costs not fully covered by employer | Must be for an EPF-approved critical illnessCovers self, spouse, children, parents, or biological siblingsMedical report and hospital bills requiredAmount: actual cost or Akaun Sejahtera balance, whichever is lower |
| Fertility Treatment Withdrawal | Covers costs for fertility treatments such as IUI, IVF, and ICSI | Akaun Sejahtera | Malaysians & Non-MalaysiansBelow 55 years oldLegally married couples (husband/wife) | Medical costs must not be covered by employerOnly for medically approved fertility treatmentsMedical report and payment receipts required |
| Incapacitation Withdrawal | Allows full withdrawal of EPF savings for members deemed unable to work | All accounts | Malaysians & Non-MalaysiansBelow 60 years oldUnemployedCertified physically/mentally incapacitated | Must be assessed by an EPF medical boardCan receive an additional RM5,000 Incapacitation Benefit if employment was terminated due to incapacity (Malaysians only, at least six months' continuous service, applied within 12 months of losing the job)Requires Form KWSP 9L, employer confirmation letter and medical report |
Key considerations for EPF healthcare withdrawals
- All withdrawals are strictly from Akaun Sejahtera. Akaun Persaraan savings cannot be used for medical withdrawals, except for incapacitation cases.
- Supporting dependents: Members can withdraw funds for immediate family members, including spouses, children, parents, and biological siblings.
- Partial employer coverage: If the employer partially covers medical costs, members can only withdraw the remaining unpaid amount.
- Medical verification: A valid medical report from an EPF-approved institution is required for all healthcare withdrawals.
- Incapacitation verification: Members applying for incapacitation withdrawal must undergo an assessment by an EPF-appointed medical board.
- Insurance via i-Lindung: Malaysian members can also use Akaun Sejahtera, Akaun 55 or Akaun Emas savings to buy EPF-approved life or critical illness cover for themselves, their spouse and children through i-Lindung in the KWSP i-Akaun app.
Can you withdraw all your EPF if you leave Malaysia?
Yes. Former citizens and PRs who have given up their status, and expatriates or foreign workers leaving Malaysia for good, can withdraw their entire EPF savings.
Members who are permanently leaving Malaysia—whether due to renouncing Malaysian citizenship, returning to their home country as an expatriate, or as a foreign worker—can withdraw their entire EPF savings.
Since 1 October 2025, employers must also contribute for non-Malaysian employees with a valid work pass (excluding domestic workers), so more foreign workers will have savings to claim when they leave.
Who can apply?
| Eligibility | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Malaysians & Permanent Residents (PR) | Must have renounced Malaysian citizenship or PR status |
| Expatriates & Foreign Workers | Must be no longer employed in Malaysia or planning to leave the country permanently |
| Must have EPF savings | Withdrawal is only applicable for existing EPF members |
| Aged 60 or above | EPF advises applying for the Age 60 full withdrawal instead |
Required documents
| Documents | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Form KWSP 9K (AHL) & Checklist | Official withdrawal application |
| Copy of valid passport | Proof of identity |
| Form KWSP 3 (Pindaan) | Required for mail submissions or failed thumbprint verification |
| Bank passbook/Savings account statement | Must be an active account with an EPF panel bank |
Additional documents (Based on member’s status)
| Member Category | Required Supporting Documents |
|---|---|
| Ex-Citizen | - Proof of Renunciation: Letter of renunciation of citizenship (Form K/Y) OR Confirmation letter from Malaysian NRD/Malaysian Embassy/High Commission |
| Permanent Resident (PR) | - Proof of Surrender: Confirmation letter for surrender of PR status from Malaysian NRD |
| Expatriate | - Apply two months before your work permit expires, your contract ends or your resignation date- Proof of Employment: Valid Work Permit- Proof of Termination: Resignation letter, contract termination letter, income tax clearance letter, or work permit cancellation- Proof of Contribution: Employer’s contribution confirmation OR letter from the applicant’s embassy |
| Foreign Worker | - Proof of Employment: Valid Work Permit- Proof of Contribution: Employer’s contribution confirmation OR letter from the applicant’s embassy- Proof of Departure: Check-out memo from Malaysian Immigration Department |
Key takeaways
- Entire EPF savings can be withdrawn when permanently leaving Malaysia.
- Supporting documents depend on your status (Malaysian, PR, expatriate, or foreign worker).
- Expatriates should apply two months before their work permit expires, contract ends or resignation date.
- Foreign workers must provide a check-out memo from Immigration.
What happens to your EPF savings when you die?
Your savings go to your nominee. If you have not made a nomination, your spouse or parents can claim in stages, and anything above RM25,000 is paid out based on a court, legal institution or Amanah Raya Berhad (ARB) letter.
| Situation | Who can apply | What is paid |
|---|---|---|
| With a nomination | Nominee aged 18 and above | The nominated share of the member's savings |
| No nomination, savings up to RM2,500 | Widow/widower (if married) or parents (if unmarried), or the administrator | Lump sum |
| No nomination, savings above RM2,500 | As above | RM2,500 first; the balance up to RM25,000 two months after the death; anything above RM25,000 based on an official letter from the courts, a legal institution or ARB |
Apply with Form KWSP 9KM, the death certificate and proof of relationship. You can make or update a nomination any time in the KWSP i-Akaun app (with e-KYC) or with Form KWSP 4 at an EPF office.
Can you withdraw EPF savings above RM1 million?
Yes, if you are below 55. In 2026, you can withdraw only the amount above RM1.1 million. The threshold rises by RM100,000 a year to RM1.3 million in 2028.
The EPF provides members with savings exceeding the yearly threshold the flexibility to withdraw and manage their excess funds independently. This allows greater control over personal financial planning while maintaining security for retirement.
Who Can Apply
- Malaysians & Non-Malaysians
- Below 55 years of age
- Have savings exceeding RM1.1 million (2026) with the EPF
What You Can Withdraw
Any savings exceeding RM1.1 million can be withdrawn, with the amount deducted in the following order: first from Akaun Fleksibel, followed by Akaun Sejahtera if necessary. If both accounts are insufficient, the remaining withdrawal amount will be taken from Akaun Persaraan.
For example, if your total savings are RM1.15 million in 2026, you can withdraw up to RM50,000.
Excess savings withdrawal threshold, 2025–2028
For members with over RM 1 million in EPF savings, withdrawals are being aligned with the Enhanced Savings benchmark of RM 1.3 million at age 60, offering greater flexibility in managing excess funds.
Similar to the phased Basic Savings transition, the withdrawal threshold for savings above RM 1 million increases by RM 100,000 annually from 2026 to 2028.
| Year | Withdrawal threshold |
|---|---|
| 2025 | RM1 million |
| 2026 (current) | RM1.1 million |
| 2027 | RM1.2 million |
| 2028 | RM1.3 million |
Additionally, under the Members Investment Scheme (MIS), members can transfer up to 30% of savings exceeding Basic Savings for their age in Akaun Persaraan to approved funds managed by Fund Management Institutions (FMIs).
What is the Retirement Income Adequacy (RIA) framework?
The RIA framework, in effect since 1 January 2026, sets three EPF savings targets at age 60: Basic (RM390,000), Adequate (RM650,000) and Enhanced (RM1.3 million). It also sets the thresholds for the RM1 million+ withdrawal and i-Legasi.
In effect since 1 January 2026, the RIA framework allows members to set savings targets that reflect different retirement lifestyles and aspirations. The framework encourages a monthly drawdown for 20 years, aligned with average life expectancy in Malaysia.
To illustrate, the different levels of savings will translate into the following at Retirement Age:
| Tier | Calculation | Savings Amount (RM) | Monthly Withdrawal (Year 1) | Monthly Withdrawal (Year 20) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic savings | 60% of Adequate Savings | 390,000 | 1,625 | 4,434 |
| Adequate savings | 240 × Adequate Retirement Income (RM2,690) | 650,000 | 2,708 | 7,389 |
| Enhanced savings | 2 × Adequate Savings | 1,300,000 | 5,417 | 14,779 |
Transition period for new basic savings
The transition to the new Basic Savings benchmark of RM390,000 will be implemented gradually over five years to allow EPF members to adjust to the higher savings requirement.
The phased approach ensures that members have sufficient time to plan their contributions and align their retirement savings accordingly. The transition timeline is as follows:
- RM270,000 at age 60, effective 1 January 2026
- RM300,000 at age 60, effective 1 January 2027
- RM330,000 at age 60, effective 1 January 2028
- RM360,000 at age 60, effective 1 January 2029
- RM390,000 at age 60, effective 1 January 2030
This gradual increase replaces the previous Basic Savings benchmark of RM 240,000 (at age 55).
To ensure the RIA Framework remains relevant and reflects changing economic conditions, the savings benchmarks will be reviewed every five years. The Belanjawanku study, which assesses the cost of living and reasonable living standards for different demographics in Malaysia, will serve as the basis for these adjustments.
This means the Basic, Adequate and Enhanced Savings levels may be revised to match inflation, changes in living costs and economic conditions.
Savings benchmarks by age
| Age | Basic Savings (RM) | Adequate Savings (RM) | Enhanced Savings (RM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 | 1,400 | 1,500 | 2,500 |
| 30 | 38,000 | 47,500 | 85,400 |
| 40 | 107,000 | 149,000 | 279,000 |
| 50 | 217,000 | 339,000 | 652,000 |
| 55 | 294,000 | 476,000 | 935,000 |
| 60 | 390,000 | 650,000 | 1,300,000 |
Impact on EPF members
As of October 2024, 36% of active formal EPF members meet the existing Basic Savings benchmark (RM 240,000 at age 55). With the new benchmarks, this percentage may temporarily decline in the short term. However, these adjustments are essential to ensure that retirement savings remain adequate amid increasing living costs.
The RIA framework is a step towards securing sustainable retirement income, providing members with a clear savings roadmap and structured withdrawals for financial security in their later years.
How do you apply for an EPF withdrawal?
Most withdrawals can be made online through the KWSP i-Akaun app or the i-Akaun (Member) web portal. Some, such as Hajj, incapacitation and death withdrawals, need a visit to an EPF office.
EPF members can choose between online and manual withdrawal methods, depending on convenience and withdrawal type.
Before you apply, check how much is in each account. Here's how to download your EPF statement online.
| Withdrawal Channel | Process | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Online via KWSP i-Akaun app or i-Akaun (Member) web portal | Registration & Activation | Members must register and activate their i-Akaun to access online withdrawal services. |
| Application Submission | Submit withdrawal applications digitally through i-Akaun. | |
| Thumbprint Verification | Required for certain withdrawals, especially high-value transactions. Verification can be done via Self-Service Terminal (SST) at EPF offices. | |
| Manual at EPF Branches | Form Submission | Members must complete and submit the relevant withdrawal form in person. |
| Required Documents | A checklist of supporting documents must be provided based on the withdrawal type. | |
| Processing Time | Varies by type. Akaun Fleksibel payments are made within three working days of approval; complete Hajj applications are paid within seven working days. |
EPF withdrawals: a financial safety net, not a quick cash solution
Withdrawing from your EPF savings should never be treated lightly, especially when it comes to your retirement funds. While Account 3 offers flexibility for short-term needs and Account 2 allows for essential expenses like housing and healthcare, every withdrawal reduces the amount available for your future.
Retirement savings are meant to sustain you when you no longer have an active income, and depleting them prematurely could mean financial struggles later in life. With the rising cost of living and increasing life expectancy, ensuring that you have sufficient savings to maintain your desired lifestyle post-retirement is crucial.
Before making any EPF withdrawal, consider the long-term impact on your financial security. If possible, explore alternative funding sources for immediate needs and keep your retirement savings intact for when you truly need them. EPF is designed to be a safety net, not a short-term cash reserve—use it wisely to secure a comfortable and stress-free retirement.
Frequently asked questions
Can I withdraw all my EPF savings before age 55?
Not in normal circumstances. Before 55 you can only withdraw Akaun Fleksibel savings, or Akaun Sejahtera savings for approved purposes such as housing, education, healthcare, Hajj or the one-off age 50 withdrawal. Full withdrawal before 55 is only allowed if you leave Malaysia permanently, are certified incapacitated, have savings above the RM1.1 million threshold (only the excess), or on death.
What is the minimum Akaun Fleksibel withdrawal?
The minimum is RM50 per application, and the maximum is your available Akaun Fleksibel balance. You must be below 55. No supporting documents are needed, but the money must go to an active savings or current account in your own name. Withdrawals up to RM3,000 are usually processed automatically through e-KYC.
How long does an EPF withdrawal take?
It depends on the type. Akaun Fleksibel payments are credited within three working days of approval. A complete Hajj withdrawal application is paid within seven working days. Housing, education and health withdrawals take longer if documents are missing or need to be verified, so check that everything is certified before you submit.
How much can I withdraw from EPF for Hajj in 2026?
From 1 January 2026, you can withdraw up to RM10,000 from Akaun Sejahtera, or your Akaun Sejahtera balance if that is lower. The old limit was RM3,000. You must be a Malaysian Muslim below 55 with a Tabung Haji offer letter marked "SELECTED", and you can only make this withdrawal once in your lifetime.
Can foreigners withdraw their EPF savings?
Yes. Non-Malaysian members below 55 can withdraw from Akaun Fleksibel through the KWSP i-Akaun app or web portal, and can withdraw their entire savings when they leave Malaysia for good. Expatriates should apply two months before their work permit expires, their contract ends or their resignation date. Foreign workers need a check-out memo from the Immigration Department.
Can I cancel an Akaun Fleksibel withdrawal?
No. Once EPF approves an Akaun Fleksibel withdrawal, it cannot be cancelled. Check the amount and make sure your bank account is active and in your own name before you submit. Because every withdrawal reduces the savings that earn dividends for your retirement, think about how much you really need.
What happens to my EPF if I die without a nominee?
Your widow or widower (or your parents, if you were unmarried) or the administrator can claim. If your savings are above RM2,500 and the claim is made within two months, RM2,500 is paid first and the balance up to RM25,000 two months after the death. Anything above RM25,000 is paid based on an official letter from the courts, a legal institution or Amanah Raya Berhad.
