False permanent-departure claim for early MPF withdrawal draws HK$6,000 fine

What happens if you make a false statement to withdraw MPF on permanent departure?

Making a false statement in an MPF withdrawal permanent departure claim is a criminal offence. On 9 March 2011, a member applied to his MPF trustee for early withdrawal of his MPF, claiming permanent departure from Hong Kong. It was later discovered he had previously withdrawn MPF on the same ground; for the false statement in his documents, the Kwun Tong Magistrates’ Courts fined him HK$6,000.

Members claiming MPF withdrawal permanent departure must sign a statutory declaration — a key document for early withdrawal. Under the MPF legislation, members may withdraw accrued benefits early only in specified circumstances, such as reaching age 65, permanently departing Hong Kong or total incapacity, and the permanent-departure ground may be used only once in a lifetime.

The MPFA reminds members that false statements in application documents may lead to prosecution and penalties. For the legitimate arrangements, see the MPF withdrawal guide.