The Ministry of Labour & Employment has directed the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) to ensure the activation of Universal Account Numbers (UAN) for employees using Aadhaar-based OTP verification. This initiative aims to enable employers and employees to efficiently access benefits under Central Government schemes, particularly the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme from the Union Budget 2024-25.Key Highlights:
Mandatory UAN Activation: Employers must activate the UAN for all employees joining in the current financial year by November 30, 2024, prioritizing the latest joinees. The process will later extend to cover all employees.
Advantages for Employees:
- Seamless access to EPFO’s online services.
- Capabilities include managing PF accounts, viewing/downloadable passbooks, submitting claims online, and updating personal details.
Aadhaar-based Process:
- Aadhaar authentication streamlines identity verification, enhancing transparency and efficiency.
- Employees need Aadhaar-linked mobile numbers to complete the process.
Step-by-Step UAN Activation:
- Visit EPFO Member Portal.
- Click "Activate UAN" and fill in required details.
- Complete Aadhaar OTP verification to generate the UAN.
Future Integration:
Biometric authentication, including face recognition, will be introduced to enhance security.
This move not only simplifies the delivery of government benefits but also ensures employees can manage their EPF accounts digitally without visiting EPFO offices.