Universal Account Number

Introduction

The UAN is a unique a 12-digit Universal Account Number. And the UAN of an employee remains the same throughout life. Even incase of job changes. So Every time an employee switches his/her job, the UAN remains the same. However, the EPFO allots a new member identification number (ID), linked to the UAN. Also, you put in a request for a new member ID by submitting the UAN to the new employer. On creation of a member ID, it gets linked to the UAN of the employee. Linked Ids ensure that there is ease in the process of EPF transfers and withdrawals.

How to Generate UAN

Just remember not to have more than one UAN. Even if you change jobs, your UAN will remain the same. Usually the employer applies for a UAN of an employee who joins the service sector for the first time. In case of a job change, just share your existing UAN with the employer to avoid confusion. In order to get a new UAN generated for the employee, the employer follows these steps:

• Login to EPF Employer Portal using the Establishment ID and password
• Click on the “Register Individual” tab in the “Member” section
• Enter the employee’s details such as PAN, Aadhaar, bank details, etc.
• Approve all details in the “Approval” section.
• The system generates a new UAN and the employer links the PF account with UAN of the employee.

Documents required for UAN registration (opening UAN)

Joined your first job? you might need to submit documents for getting a UAN. So these documents to get your Unique Account Number include:

• Bank account details: Account number, IFSC code, and branch name.
• ID proof: Any photo-affixed and national identity cards. Like driving license, passport, voter ID, Aadhaar, and SSLC.
• Address proof: A recent utility bill in your name. Also rental/lease agreement, ration card or any of the ID proof mentioned above if it has your current address.
• PAN card: All types of registrations almost always require the PAN card. The PAN and the UAN have to be linked.
• Aadhaar card: Mandatorily required (Similar to the PAN card). Make sure that the DOB has a full date here though.
• ESIC card

How to activate and login to the EPFO website using UAN?

To activate UAN, you certainly require your Universal Account Number and PF member ID. Once you have these, for activation of UAN on the EPFO portal, follow these steps:

1. Visit the EPFO homepage and under ‘Our Services’ on the dashboard click on ‘For Employees’.
2. Now, navigate to ‘Member UAN/Online services’ in the services section. The services page of the UAN portal opens up.
3. Enter the details asked for. These include your Universal Account Number, mobile number and PF member ID. Now, enter the captcha. Next, click on the ‘Get authorization PIN’ button.
4. Select the ‘I Agree’ box under the disclaimer checkbox. A PIN (OTP) comes on your registered mobile number. Enter the OTP received and now click on ‘Validate OTP and Activate UAN’.
5. On UAN activation, a password comes on your registered mobile number. Surely use this password for access to your account.

How to Know Your UAN

a. Through the Employer

Generally, your employer allots the Universal Account Number. And pass on the information to the employees. Further, some employers print the UAN number in the salary slips too. Asking them first is the best choice of action.

b. Through UAN Portal using PF number/member ID

The employer generally provides the UAN and PF details to the employee. However, you can easily find out your UAN in a few simple steps mentioned below:

• Visit EPF Member Portal to know your UAN.
• Select Member ID, Aadhaar or PAN.
• Enter details such as name, date of birth, mobile number and e-mail id.
• Click on the “Get Authorization Pin” option.
• The mobile number registered with the EPFO receives a Pin.
• On entering the Pin, the UAN comes to the mobile number.

UAN benefits for employees

UAN offers a number of benefits to employees. These include the following:

• Keep a track of all your EPF accounts at a single place
• View your EPF Passbook Online.
• Easier withdraw amounts from EPF (partial and full amounts)
• Online transfer of EPF accounts
• Check claim status online
• A single unified account for almost all services.
• No need of intermediaries for actions of the EPFO portal
• So employers cannot access or withhold the PF money of their employees.
• The employees themselves have the power to do everything on the portal.
• Near instant download of any PF statement (for visa purpose, loan security, etc.). And that too at any time. Just download by either by logging in using the member ID or UAN or by sending an SMS.
• Also keep check on employers to ensure regular deposits of their contribution.

Linking Aadhaar with UAN

Once you login to your EPF account, you have to seed your details in UAN. Accordingly follow these steps to link your UAN with Aadhaar:

• Login to your EPF account at the EPF member portal.
• Click on the “KYC” option in the “Manage” section.
• Tick the square in front of Aadhaar and enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and name.
• Now click on the “Save” option.
• Your request comes under “KYC Pending for Approval”.
• Your profile only updates on confirmation of details. The field “Approved by Establishment” now mentions the name of your present employer. Also, “Verified by UIDAI” is mentioned against your Aadhaar.