Have you ever been working with an organisation where the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) was being deducted from your wages? Then you have a UAN—Universal Account Number. It's your personal identification number to consolidate all your PF accounts, however many jobs you've changed. What if you lost it or didn't get it from your employer?
Don't panic. Obtaining your UAN is easier than you think—and you can get it done on the internet in a few simple steps.
Step 1: Go to the EPFO website
Go to https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in/ which is the official EPFO member services website. On the home page, there is a link titled 'Know Your UAN'—click on that. That will take you to a simple form.
Step 2: Enter your details
The application will ask your name, date of birth, mobile number, and your Aadhaar or PAN. Be sure to provide your mobile number linked to your PF account. That's where the OTP (one-time password) will be obtained.
Step 3: OTP Verification
Once you fill in the details and submit the form, an OTP will be sent on your mobile number. Fill that in the website and submit again. If your information is similar to EPFO information, your UAN will be reflected in the screen. You can even get it on your phone via SMS.
Step 4: Save it somewhere safe
Take note of your UAN and store it safely. It is also better if you activate it. You can do that through the same website by choosing the option 'Activate UAN'. After activating it, you can set a password and login into and manage your PF account with ease using your UAN.
Why do you need your UAN?
Without your UAN, you cannot check your PF balance, transfer funds on changing jobs, or withdraw funds. It is the master key to your PF account. With it in hand, you can also track your contributions, if you have worked at multiple places.
Keep your contact details updated
Make sure your mobile number and email ID are registered with the EPFO. This will make things easy in case you forget your login or you need a password reset.
Still getting stuck? Here's what to do
If you don't get the OTP or your details don't match, don't panic. You can reach out to your payroll or HR department. They should be able to pull out your UAN from their records. Else, you can seek assistance from your local EPFO office.
FAQs
1. Can I have multiple UANs if I had a multiple job switch?
No, a UAN is allotted to the employee only once in his/her lifetime. If the person has received more than one UAN accidentally, then he/she can consolidate such UANs through the EPFO portal under his/her active UAN .
2. My mobile number is utilized in my PF account is no more active. What do I do?
There, you will not be able to obtain the OTP required for UAN retrieval. You'll need to either update your mobile number by approaching your employer or go to the nearest EPFO office with valid ID proof to help you.
3. Do I need to link my Aadhaar with my UAN?
Yes, Aadhaar linking with UAN is mandatory for the majority of EPFO services like withdrawals and transfer. It provides authentication of your identity and an easy process for utilizing PF services online.
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