The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation has upgraded its online services, enabling convenient Aadhaar-based face authentication for first-time universal account number activation via the UMANG app, streamlining claims and account management for workers.
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation has expanded its digital services in a move that should make routine provident fund tasks less cumbersome for workers, with several processes now handled online rather than through employers or local offices. According to reporting from InformalNewz, the updated portal is meant to reduce delays in matters such as activating a universal account number, filing claims and updating key account details.
A key change is the shift to Aadhaar-based face authentication for first-time universal account number activation through the UMANG app. Livemint and Business Standard reported that EPFO has moved away from activation on the member portal, steering users towards the mobile app for a more secure process. The new system requires an Aadhaar-linked mobile number, and it is intended to let members complete activation from home rather than visiting an office.
Once a UAN is active, subscribers can use the portal for a wider set of services, including advance and final provident fund withdrawals, e-nomination, KYC updates, bank-linking, transfer of PF balances between jobs, passbook downloads and online death claims. Livemint reported that active UANs also unlock access to passbook viewing and claim filing, while GreytHR’s circular on the process said the Aadhaar Face RD app is part of the authentication flow. InformalNewz said the portal update is also meant to improve grievance handling.
The convenience still depends on accurate records. EPFO users need their Aadhaar, mobile number and personal details to match across systems, and the exit date from a job should be updated correctly before any final settlement claim. Reporting from InformalNewz said complete KYC records and e-nomination can help avoid avoidable delays later, especially when members change jobs or their family needs to file a claim.
Disclaimer: This article is intended to inform and educate, not to recommend or endorse any financial product, investment or strategy. Please consider your own financial circumstances and seek professional advice where appropriate before making financial decisions.
