Question:
If I want to make a lump sum withdrawal from my provident fund, is this possible?
Answer:
Safwaan, Before retirement, you can only access your provident fund if you resign from your current employer. You can then withdraw from the provident fund, and claim your fund credit as a cash lump sum. You will pay tax on any lump sum above R22 500. You other option is to apply for a loan, but this must used for a purpose as contemplated by s19(5) of the Pension Funds Act (essentially housing-related), and such loan must be permitted by your provident fund's specific rules.