EPFO (Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation) has introduced a new service that allows employees to create their Universal Account Number (UAN) from home.
Now, you can generate your UAN instantly just by using your face for authentication, without needing to visit an office or do any paperwork.
This process can be done through the UMANG app and Aadhaar Face Authentication technology, making it easier to access EPF services like viewing passbooks, filing claims, and updating KYC details.
Why Was This Change Made?
Data Errors: Previously, UAN details were provided by employers, leading to mistakes in personal details like names and phone numbers.
Missing Mobile Numbers: Many employees had incorrect or missing mobile numbers, causing communication issues with EPFO.
Difficult UAN Activation: UAN activation required Aadhaar OTP verification, which was problematic for some employees.
What Are the Benefits of This Change?
Self UAN Generation: Employees can now generate their UAN on their own using the UMANG app, reducing reliance on employers.
Face Authentication: The process uses face recognition with Aadhaar data for a more secure and reliable identity check.
Instant Activation: The UAN is automatically activated as soon as it is generated, giving employees immediate access to EPFO services.
How to Generate Your UAN
Follow these simple steps:
Download and install the UMANG app from the Play Store.
Download and install the AadhaarFaceRD app.
Open the UMANG app and go to “UAN Allotment and Activation.”
Enter your Aadhaar number and the mobile number linked with Aadhaar.
Give your consent by ticking the checkbox.
Verify the OTP sent to your phone.
The camera will open; take a live photo. The photo capture is successful when the border turns green (similar to the DigiYatra app).
Your photo will be matched with Aadhaar data, and once matched, your UAN will be sent via SMS.
Your UAN will also be activated automatically, and you can download the UAN card from the UMANG app or EPFO Member Portal.
Benefits of This New Process
Aadhaar and User Verification: Face authentication ensures 100% accurate Aadhaar verification.
Direct Aadhaar Data: All details are taken directly from Aadhaar, eliminating the need for manual data entry.
Mobile Number Verification: Your mobile number is checked against the number linked to Aadhaar.
Instant UAN Activation: UAN is generated and activated in one step.
Self-Generation: Employees no longer depend on employers to generate their UAN.
Easy Access to EPFO Services: Once activated, you can instantly access services like viewing your passbook, updating KYC, and making claims.
What About Inactive UANs?
If your UAN is inactive, you can also activate it easily using the UMANG app.
Increased Security with Face Authentication
Face authentication is more secure than traditional OTP or demographic methods. It ensures that identity verification is accurate and tamper-proof, making EPFO services more secure.
In the future, this will allow employees to access more self-service options without needing to contact employers or the EPFO office.
Encouragement for Employers
Employers are encouraged to adopt this new face authentication process for first-time employees to ensure timely and authentic registration in the EPFO system.
Support from MY Bharat
EPFO will soon promote Jeevan Pramaan (Digital Life Certificate) through face authentication with the help of MY Bharat volunteers, enabling pensioners to avail services from home.
