The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) requires members to create and activate an EPFO account to access retirement savings services. Activation enables employees to view passbooks, update KYC details, and make withdrawal claims online.
Why an EPFO Account Matters
The EPFO manages retirement savings for more than 270 million workers across India. By linking all provident fund contributions to a Universal Account Number (UAN), the organisation allows employees to monitor savings seamlessly, even when changing jobs.
According to an official statement from the Ministry of Labour and Employment, UAN activation is essential for transparency and portability of provident fund benefits.
Step-by-Step Process for Account Activation
1. Obtain Your UAN
Employees usually receive their UAN from their employer. For those who do not, the EPFO’s online “Know Your UAN” service allows retrieval using personal details such as name, date of birth, and PF account number.
2. Access the EPFO Member Portal
Visit the Unified Portal – Member e-Sewa, available at https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in. On the login page, select “Activate UAN.”
3. Submit Required Information
The portal requests details including UAN, member ID, Aadhaar number or Permanent Account Number (PAN), name, date of birth, and registered mobile number. Captcha verification is mandatory.
4. Verify Through OTP
The system generates a One-Time Password (OTP), sent to the registered mobile number. Members must enter this OTP to confirm their identity.
5. Set a Secure Password
Once verified, users can create a password. This credential, along with the UAN, will be used for all future logins.
6. Access Member Services
After activation, employees can log in to view their passbook, update KYC documents, and submit claims digitally.
Recent Developments: UMANG App and Face Authentication
In August 2025, EPFO made activation through the UMANG app mandatory for new users. The app incorporates Face Authentication Technology (FAT) to improve security and reduce identity fraud, according to a circular issued by the organisation.
Labour rights groups have welcomed the move but cautioned that workers in rural areas with limited smartphone access may face challenges. “Digitalisation is necessary, but the government must also ensure inclusivity,” said Dr. Ritu Sharma, professor of labour economics at Jawaharlal Nehru University.
Challenges and Common Issues
While the system is streamlined, several challenges persist. Mobile number mismatches and discrepancies between EPFO and Aadhaar records often delay activation. Employers are responsible for correcting details in such cases.
The EPFO has advised members to regularly update personal records to prevent delays in claim settlements. In its latest annual report, the agency noted that nearly 15 percent of member grievances involved KYC mismatches.
Global Context
India’s provident fund system, one of the largest in the world, is closely monitored by international agencies such as the International Labour Organization (ILO). Analysts say digital reforms such as mandatory UMANG activation align with global trends towards online pension management.
However, questions remain about digital literacy and infrastructure. A 2024 report by the World Bank emphasised that “universal digital access must be complemented by strong user support systems to avoid exclusion of vulnerable workers.”
Conclusion
Activating an EPFO account is now an essential requirement for accessing provident fund benefits in India. While the process has been simplified through digital platforms, new regulations such as mandatory face authentication highlight both progress and the continuing need for inclusivity in India’s social security framework.
