Starting August 1, 2025, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has made it mandatory for members to activate their Universal Account Number (UAN) through the UMANG mobile app, using Aadhaar-based face authentication.
This move marks a significant shift toward a fully digital and self-service model for accessing EPFO services, eliminating the need for employer intervention in UAN activation.
The change is part of EPFO’s broader effort to improve accuracy, reduce delays, and empower employees with direct control over their provident fund accounts.
What Is the UMANG App and Why It Matters
UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance) is a government-developed platform that provides access to a wide range of e-governance services.
Available on both Android and iOS, the app now includes enhanced EPFO features such as:
- Direct UAN allotment and activation
- Activation of existing UANs
- Face authentication for already activated UANs
These features are powered by Face Authentication Technology (FAT), which uses biometric verification linked to Aadhaar to ensure secure and error-free access.
Step-by-Step Guide to Activate EPFO UAN via UMANG
For First-Time Users (No Existing UAN)
- Download the UMANG app and Aadhaar Face RD app from the Play Store.
- Open UMANG and select “UAN Allotment and Activation.”
- Enter your Aadhaar number and mobile number, then provide consent for Aadhaar validation.
- Tap “Send OTP” and verify using the OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile.
- Complete face authentication using the Aadhaar Face RD app.
- If no UAN exists, the system will generate one and send it via SMS along with a temporary password.
Users with an Existing but Inactive UAN
- Open UMANG and go to “UAN Activation.”
- Enter your UAN, Aadhaar number, and mobile number, then provide consent.
- Verify using OTP and complete face authentication.
- Once verified, your UAN is activated and a temporary password is sent via SMS.
For Users with an Already Activated UAN
- Use the “Face Authentication of Already Activated UANs” option in UMANG.
- Complete biometric verification to update EPFO records with your photo and address.
Why This Matters for Employees
Historically, UAN activation relied heavily on employers, often resulting in delays, incorrect entries, and limited access to EPFO services.
Reports indicate that only 35% of assigned UANs were activated directly by employees.
With the new system, users can independently:
- Check EPF balance
- Submit claims
- Update KYC details
- Download their UAN card
- Access pension withdrawal and transfer services
This is especially beneficial for employees who frequently change jobs or live in remote areas with limited access to EPFO offices.
Exceptions and Special Cases
While the new protocol applies to most users, international workers and citizens of Nepal and Bhutan are exempt and must continue using the employer-assisted method for UAN generation.
EPFO Policy Context and Future Outlook
The move aligns with EPFO’s digital transformation goals and supports broader government initiatives to streamline employment-linked benefits.
It also complements the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) program and recent budget announcements that promote formal sector employment through direct benefit transfers.
As digital governance continues to evolve, EPFO’s shift to Aadhaar-based face authentication via UMANG may serve as a model for other public service platforms.
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