India’s UAN number, or Universal Account Number, has become a pivotal reform in how employees manage their Provident Fund (PF). Introduced by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), the UAN acts as a permanent, lifetime identifier, linking multiple PF accounts and simplifying access, transfers, and withdrawals.
What Is the UAN Number?
The Universal Account Number is a 12-digit identifier assigned to each employee contributing to the PF. Unlike the older system, where workers accumulated multiple PF accounts when changing jobs, the UAN ensures all accounts are consolidated under a single umbrella.
According to EPFO guidelines, the UAN remains unchanged throughout an individual’s career, regardless of employer changes. Each new job results in a fresh Member ID that is automatically linked to the existing UAN.
Why the UAN System Was Introduced
Before the UAN, employees faced challenges in tracking their PF balances, especially when they held several Member IDs. Transfers between accounts were often delayed, and unclaimed funds became common.
The government launched the UAN in 2014 to bring transparency and efficiency to the PF system. “The UAN empowers workers to monitor contributions in real time and reduces dependency on employers for basic PF services,” the EPFO stated in an official release.
Benefits of the UAN System
Consolidated Access
Workers can now view all PF balances in one place, eliminating confusion over multiple accounts.
Simplified Transfers and Withdrawals
Transfers between accounts are streamlined. Withdrawals, previously requiring employer attestation, can be processed directly by the EPFO once KYC verification is complete.
Transparency and Security
Employees can track monthly contributions, interest accruals, and claim status through the UAN portal. This transparency reduces disputes between employers and employees.
Digital Integration
The system allows Aadhaar, PAN, and bank details to be seeded into the UAN, enabling online claim settlement. EPFO data show that nearly 90% of active PF accounts are now linked to Aadhaar.
Recent Developments
In August 2025, EPFO mandated that UAN activation and new allotments be completed via the government’s UMANG app, using Facial Authentication Technology (FAT). Officials said the step is intended to prevent duplication and enhance identity verification.
“Biometric verification will ensure greater accuracy in PF records and safeguard workers’ savings,” said a Labour Ministry spokesperson during a press briefing.
The organisation has also simplified the Aadhaar seeding process, enabling faster updates of personal details on the UAN portal.
How Employees Can Use Their UAN
Workers can activate their UAN through the official portal or the UMANG app by providing personal details, Member ID, and a registered mobile number. Once activated, they can:
- Access passbooks and contribution records.
- Submit withdrawal or transfer requests online.
- Update bank and KYC details without employer intervention.
Why the UAN Matters for India’s Workforce
Experts note that the UAN system reflects India’s broader push toward digital governance. By linking all PF accounts to a permanent number, the EPFO reduces administrative delays and ensures that workers retain control of their retirement savings even as they move between jobs.
Dr. Shalini Mehta, a labour economist at Jawaharlal Nehru University, said, “The UAN has improved transparency and portability in India’s social security system. For a workforce where job mobility is increasing, it is a significant safeguard.”
Conclusion
The UAN number has transformed how Indian employees interact with the Provident Fund. By creating a single, permanent link across multiple PF accounts, it has simplified management, increased transparency, and aligned the system with digital reforms. For millions of workers, the UAN represents both security and control over their retirement savings.
