New EPFO Rule: Quick Steps For Aadhaar-based UAN Activation

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The Ministry of Labour and Employment has reiterated the importance of Aadhaar-linked Universal Account Numbers (UAN) for employees enrolled in the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). This measure aims to streamline subsidy and incentive payments while ensuring transparency and efficiency in welfare schemes. Employers and employees are encouraged to complete the UAN activation process promptly to maximise their benefits under the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme announced in the Union Budget 2024-25.

Why Aadhaar-Based UAN Activation Is Essential
Using Aadhaar as an identity document has revolutionised government services. It eliminates the need for multiple identity proofs and ensures seamless delivery of benefits. Aadhaar-based verification enhances transparency, simplifies processes, and guarantees that entitlements reach the intended beneficiaries without delay.

The government has directed EPFO to ensure 100% Aadhaar-based UAN activation, starting with employees who joined in the current financial year. Employers must prioritise this process to benefit from government schemes and ensure their employees can access EPFO’s digital services fully.

Steps To Activate Your UAN With Aadhaar

Employers and employees can follow these steps to activate their UAN using Aadhaar-based OTP

  • Visit the EPFO Member Portal
    Navigate to the official EPFO website to begin the activation process.
  • Click on Activate UAN
    Under the Important Links section, locate and click the Activate UAN link.
  • Provide Required Details
    Enter details such as your UAN, Aadhaar number, name, date of birth, and the mobile number linked to your Aadhaar.
  • Agree to Aadhaar OTP Verification
  • Accept the Aadhaar OTP verification to proceed with the activation.
  • Receive and Enter OTP
    Click on Get Authorization PIN to receive an OTP on your Aadhaar-linked mobile number. Enter this OTP to verify your details.
  • Complete Activation
    Upon successful verification, a password for your UAN account will be sent to your registered mobile number.
  • Deadlines And Employer Responsibilities
    Employers are tasked with ensuring that all employees activate their UAN by 30th November 2024. The process should start with the latest joinees and extend to all employees. Employers are expected to work closely with EPFO’s zonal and regional offices to facilitate the activation campaign.

    Failure to meet this deadline may result in delays in accessing EPFO benefits, including the Employment Linked Incentive Scheme. Thus, employers must educate their workforce about the activation process and provide the necessary support.

    Benefits Of Aadhaar-Linked UAN

  • Seamless Access To EPFO Services
    Employees with an activated UAN can use EPFO’s digital services, making transactions and account management simpler.
  • Enhanced Transparency
    Aadhaar linkage reduces the chances of fraudulent claims and ensures that only eligible beneficiaries receive entitlements.
  • Efficient Subsidy Distribution
  • Using the Aadhaar Payment Bridge, subsidies and incentives are directly transferred to beneficiaries’ accounts.
  • Simplified Identity Verification
    Aadhaar-based UAN activation negates the need for multiple identity proofs, saving time and effort for employees.
  • The Broader Impact Of Aadhaar Integration
    This initiative aligns with the government’s broader goal of promoting digital inclusion and financial transparency. By making Aadhaar linkage mandatory, the Ministry of Labour and Employment ensures that government benefits reach their rightful recipients. This measure also contributes to the efficiency of employment schemes like ELI, fostering trust and accountability.

    Aadhaar-based UAN activation is a crucial step towards a transparent and efficient system that benefits both employers and employees. By meeting the November 2024 deadline, organisations can unlock the full potential of EPFO’s services while ensuring compliance with government regulations.