EPFO Introduces Aadhaar Face Authentication for UAN Generation and Activation via UMANG App
In a significant step toward streamlining its services, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has launched a new feature that allows its members to generate and activate their Universal Account Number (UAN) using Aadhaar Face Authentication Technology (FAT) via the UMANG mobile app. This contactless and secure service aims to provide a hassle-free and fully digital experience to millions of EPFO members.
Previously, UAN generation was primarily done by employers using employee data submitted to the EPFO. However, errors in data fields like the father’s name, mobile number, or date of birth were frequent, leading to delays and complications during claim processing and when accessing other EPFO services. According to the Ministry of Labour and Employment, such inaccuracies were common and required corrections, further complicating the process.
In the financial year 2024-25, only 35.30% of the 1.26 crore UANs allotted were activated by members. The process was often confusing, with UANs not being communicated to employees, incorrect mobile numbers, or missing details, which made direct communication challenging. UAN activation was a separate process that needed to be completed by the member through the EPFO Member portal, often requiring Aadhaar OTP validation, adding to the confusion.
To resolve these issues, the EPFO has now enabled UAN generation and activation directly using Aadhaar Face Authentication via the UMANG app. This new method ensures 100% validation of Aadhaar and the user’s identity, with data pre-populated from the Aadhaar database. The user’s mobile number is matched with the one registered in Aadhaar, and UAN activation on the EPFO portal is completed simultaneously during the generation process.
This service is available for both employees and employers. Upon employment, an employee can provide a copy of their e-UAN card PDF and UAN to the employer for onboarding with the EPFO. This unlocks immediate access to EPFO services, including passbook viewing, KYC updates, and claim submissions.
The EPFO’s new initiative comes on the heels of two important reforms in the EPFO claim settlement process. The requirement to upload images of a cheque leaf or attested bank passbook when filing online claims has been removed, benefiting over 7.7 crore members. Additionally, the need for employer approval after bank verification has also been eliminated, further simplifying the process for members.
These reforms mark a major leap in enhancing the efficiency and user-friendliness of EPFO services, making them more accessible and streamlined for the workforce across India.
