Early FNPF withdrawals allowed only in limited cases, Fund clarifies

Members of Fiji's retirement fund can access their savings before the official retirement age of 55, but only under specific circumstances, officials have confirmed.

Early withdrawals are tightly controlled to protect long­term retirement security.

Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) chief executive officer, Viliame Vodonaivalu, explained during a recent member forum that withdrawals are permitted from age 50, but only if a member is incapacitated and unable to work, or if they are unemployed with a balance of less than $10,000.

Mr Vodonaivalu said the fund was reviewing its policies but stressed the importance of allowing sufficient accumulation time.

"The longer you contribute to the fund, the more your savings grow through contributions and investment returns," he said.

"Shortening the accumulation period reduces the amount available and may make it difficult to sustain you during retirement."

He added that the rules aim to balance the need for early access with the long-term objective of financial security. "Minimising early withdrawals ensures members accumulate more savings, which helps maintain stability when they retire," he said.