The Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) has simplified how its members can stay updated on their retirement savings. Members can now check PF balance details, including their latest contribution and total balance, instantly by sending a simple SMS from their registered mobile number. This service ensures that crores of employees can monitor their funds without needing a smartphone or internet connection.
The Importance of Monitoring Your PF Balance
For millions of salaried employees in India, the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) is a cornerstone of long-term financial security. Regularly checking your PF balance is a critical financial habit. It allows you to verify that your employer is depositing their contributions on time, track the interest accrued annually, and maintain an accurate picture of your retirement corpus. This diligence is key for effective financial planning and ensuring your savings are secure.
A New Way to Check PF Balance Instantly: Offline Methods
Recognizing the need for accessible solutions, the EPFO provides simple offline methods that do not require an internet connection. These services are free of charge and designed for universal access.
How the SMS Service Works
The EPFO’s SMS service provides a direct and straightforward way to get your PF details. To use this service, your Universal Account Number (UAN) must be activated and linked with your KYC details (Aadhaar, PAN, and bank account).
The process is simple:
- Open the messaging app on your mobile phone.
- Compose a new message with the text: EPFOHO UAN.
- Send this message to the number 7738299899.
The SMS must be sent from the mobile number registered with your UAN. You will promptly receive an SMS from the EPFO containing your last PF contribution, total account balance, and KYC status. A key feature is its multilingual support. To receive the update in a language other than the default English, add the first three letters of your preferred language after your UAN. For example, to receive details in Hindi, text EPFOHO UAN HIN. The service is available in 10 languages, including Telugu, Tamil, Punjabi, and Bengali.
Alternative Method: The Missed Call Service
Another convenient offline option for UAN Balance Enquiry is the missed call service. Members with an activated and KYC-linked UAN can give a missed call to 9966044425 from their registered mobile number. The call will disconnect automatically after a couple of rings, and you will receive an SMS with your Provident Fund Details.
Other Convenient Ways to Check Your PF Balance
Besides offline methods, the EPFO provides robust online platforms for members who prefer digital access.
Using the EPFO Member Portal
The official EPFO Member Portal is a comprehensive resource for managing your PF account. To check your balance:
- Visit the EPF portal and navigate to the ‘For Employees’ section.
- Click on ‘Member Passbook’ and sign in with your UAN and password.
- After OTP verification, you can view and download your detailed passbook, which shows all contributions from both you and your employer, as well as interest credits.
Using the UMANG Mobile App
The UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance) app provides a single platform for accessing various government services, including the EPFO. After a one-time registration using your mobile number:
- Navigate to the EPFO section within the app.
- Select ‘View Passbook’ under ‘Employee Centric Services’.
- Enter your UAN and verify with the OTP sent to your registered number.
- You can then view your passbook and balance for all linked member IDs.
Key Requirements and Special Cases
- To use any of these services, members must first ensure their UAN is activated on the EPFO portal. Furthermore, your KYC (Know Your Customer) details specifically your Aadhaar, PAN card, and bank account must be linked to your UAN.
- It is important to note that employees of exempted establishments (where the company manages its own PF trust) cannot use these EPFO facilities. They must contact their company’s HR department or trust to get their PF balance statement.
FAQs
How often is the PF balance updated?
Your passbook is generally updated within a few hours after your employer’s contribution is credited. If you notice a delay of more than two days, it is advisable to contact your HR department.
Can I check my PF balance without a UAN?
No, a UAN is mandatory for accessing your balance through the official EPFO portal, app, SMS, or missed call services.
Can I check the balance of previous or older PF accounts?
Yes. When you log in with your UAN, all PF accounts (member IDs) linked to it will be displayed. You can select any previous account to check its balance.
What should I do if my KYC is not linked?
You must log into the EPFO member portal and submit your KYC details online. Your employer will then need to approve them digitally before you can access these services.
Conclusion
The EPFO’s multi-channel approach to service delivery, particularly its new SMS and missed call options, empowers members with unparalleled access to their financial information. By providing simple, free, and multilingual tools, the organization ensures that every member, regardless of their technological access or location, can easily check PF balance and take an active role in managing their retirement savings.
