Introduction

The Universal Account Number (UAN) is a unique 12-digit identification number issued to employees contributing to the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) in India. It acts as a central reference number for all PF accounts linked to an individual, simplifying the management and tracking of provident fund contributions. Checking your UAN number is crucial for accessing various EPFO services, including checking PF balance, downloading EPF passbook, and submitting claims online.

Understanding how to check your UAN number ensures you stay informed about your retirement savings and can efficiently manage your EPF account. This tutorial provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to check your UAN number, best practices for managing it, useful tools and resources, real-life examples, and frequently asked questions to help you navigate the process confidently.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Gather Necessary Information

Before checking your UAN number, ensure you have the following details handy:

• Employee ID as provided by your employer
• Mobile number registered with your EPF account
• Valid email ID linked to your employment records
• Personal details such as name, date of birth, and Aadhaar number (optional but helpful)

Step 2: Visit the EPFO Official Portal

Open your preferred web browser and navigate to the official EPFO website at https://www.epfindia.gov.in. This portal is the authorized platform for all EPF-related services, including UAN management.

Step 3: Access the UAN Member Portal

On the EPFO homepage, locate the “For Employees” section. Click on the “Member UAN/Online Services” link, which will redirect you to the UAN Member Portal. This portal is specifically designed to allow members to activate, manage, and check their UAN details.

Step 4: Use the “Know Your UAN Status” Feature

Within the UAN Member Portal, find the option labeled “Know Your UAN Status.” This feature allows you to retrieve your UAN number if you do not remember it or have not activated it yet.

Click on the “Know Your UAN” link to proceed.

Step 5: Enter Required Details

Fill in the mandatory fields in the form displayed:

• Member ID (Employee ID)
• Aadhaar Number (optional but recommended)
• PAN Number (if available)
• Mobile Number registered with EPFO
• Name
• Date of Birth

Ensure all details are accurate to avoid errors during verification.

Step 6: Submit and Verify OTP

After entering the required information, submit the form. An OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent to your registered mobile number.

Enter the OTP in the provided field to verify your identity.

Step 7: Retrieve Your UAN Number

Once verification is successful, your UAN number will be displayed on the screen. Note it down carefully for future reference.

You can also choose to download or print the UAN details for record-keeping.

Step 8: Activate Your UAN (If Not Activated)

If your UAN is not already activated, visit the UAN Member Portal’s activation page. You will need to provide your UAN, member ID, Aadhaar, PAN, and other personal details to complete the activation process.

Best Practices

Keep Your Mobile Number Updated

Since OTP verification is essential for UAN-related services, always ensure your registered mobile number is current. Update it promptly if you change your phone number through your employer or EPFO portal.

Secure Your UAN Credentials

Treat your UAN number and login credentials like sensitive information. Avoid sharing them with unauthorized persons to prevent misuse.

Regularly Check EPF Statements

Log in to your UAN Member Portal periodically to review your EPF passbook and verify that your employer is making timely contributions.

Link Aadhaar and PAN

Linking your Aadhaar and PAN with your EPF account helps streamline verification processes and claim settlements.

Use Official Channels Only

Always use the official EPFO website and portals to check or manage your UAN to avoid phishing or fraudulent activities.

Tools and Resources

EPFO Official Website

The primary and most reliable resource for checking and managing your UAN is the EPFO portal: https://www.epfindia.gov.in.

UAN Member Portal

Accessible through the EPFO site, this portal offers comprehensive services related to UAN activation, status check, passbook download, and claim submissions.

UMANG Mobile App

The UMANG app, developed by the Government of India, integrates multiple government services, including EPFO. Through this app, you can check your UAN status, EPF balance, and other related services conveniently on your smartphone.

EPFO Passbook Portal

Once your UAN is activated, you can access your PF account details and monthly statements through the EPFO Passbook portal.

FAQs and Help Sections on EPFO

EPFO’s official website has a dedicated FAQ section that addresses common queries related to UAN and EPF processes, which can be useful for troubleshooting common issues.

Real Examples

Example 1: Retrieving UAN Using Member ID and Mobile Number

Rajesh Kumar, a software engineer, wanted to check his UAN number to monitor his PF balance. He visited the EPFO portal, accessed the “Know Your UAN” service, and entered his member ID, date of birth, and registered mobile number. After submitting the OTP received on his phone, his UAN number was displayed immediately, allowing him to activate it and download his EPF passbook.

Example 2: Using Aadhaar for UAN Retrieval

Priya Singh, working in the manufacturing sector, did not remember her member ID but had her Aadhaar number linked to her EPF account. By selecting the Aadhaar option on the “Know Your UAN” page and entering her name, date of birth, and mobile number, she successfully retrieved her UAN and completed the activation process seamlessly.

Example 3: Checking UAN Status via UMANG App

Vikram Patel preferred using his smartphone for managing his EPF account. He downloaded the UMANG app, registered using his mobile number, and accessed the EPFO services section. By entering his member details, he checked his UAN status and was able to view his PF contributions without visiting the web portal.

FAQs

What is the Universal Account Number (UAN)?

The UAN is a unique 12-digit number allotted to every EPF member. It consolidates multiple Member IDs allotted by different employers under a single number to simplify EPF account management.

How can I check my UAN if I forgot it?

You can retrieve your UAN by visiting the EPFO’s “Know Your UAN Status” page and providing details such as member ID, Aadhaar number, mobile number, name, and date of birth. Upon verification, your UAN will be displayed.

Is it mandatory to activate my UAN?

Yes. Activating your UAN enables you to access EPF services online, including checking balances, downloading passbooks, and submitting claims.

Can I check my UAN on my mobile phone?

Yes. You can use the UMANG mobile app or a mobile browser to access the EPFO portal and check your UAN and EPF details.

What if my mobile number is not registered with EPFO?

You will need to update your mobile number through your employer or EPFO portal to receive OTPs and access UAN-related services.

Conclusion

Knowing how to check your UAN number is essential for managing your Employees' Provident Fund account efficiently. The UAN serves as a gateway to monitor your PF contributions, access statements, and avail various online services offered by EPFO. By following the detailed step-by-step guide provided in this tutorial, you can easily retrieve and activate your UAN, ensuring seamless access to your retirement benefits.

Maintaining updated personal information and using official tools and resources will help you avoid common pitfalls and enhance your experience with EPF account management. Remember, securing and regularly checking your UAN and EPF details empowers you to take control of your financial future.