What does the term “inoperative accounts” refer to in the context of EPF?

The term "inoperative accounts" refers to accounts that have remained dormant for a specified period without contributions. In the context of the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF), when a member has not made any contributions to their account for a particular duration, usually a specified number of years, the account is classified as inoperative. This classification typically indicates a lack of activity in the account and signifies that the member is no longer actively contributing to their EPF account, which may have implications for withdrawals or transfers.

Understanding this concept is crucial for managing EPF accounts, as inoperative status can affect the account holder's benefits and options regarding their retirement savings. Members are usually encouraged to keep their accounts active to maximize their savings and ensure they are utilizing the benefits provided by the EPF system effectively.