Forgot Your UAN? Here’s How to Recover It Using Aadhaar, PAN or PF Number
Forgot Your UAN? Here’s How to Recover It Using Aadhaar, PAN or PF Number
The Universal Account Number (UAN) is an important identification number for employees covered under the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF). From checking the PF balance and updating KYC details to transferring funds after changing jobs, several EPFO services require the UAN. But if an employee forgets the number, it can be recovered online using basic details such as Aadhaar, PAN or an old PF Member ID.
A UAN is a unique 12-digit number allotted to an EPF member by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). It remains the same throughout an employee’s career, even if the person changes jobs. When an employee joins a new organisation, the PF Member ID created by the new employer can be linked to the existing UAN.
How to find a forgotten UAN online
EPF members can use the “Know Your UAN” facility available through EPFO’s online services. The process requires verification through the mobile number and personal details registered with the provident fund records.
https://www.epfindia.gov.in/site_hi/index.php
(Official website of EPFO)
Members need to provide the required information, which can include Aadhaar, PAN or PF Member ID, along with details such as their name and date of birth. An OTP is then used to verify the user’s identity. After successful verification, the UAN can be retrieved.
Can an old PF number help recover UAN?
Employees who do not remember their UAN but still have their old PF Member ID can use it during the recovery process. They need to enter the Member ID and other information matching EPFO records. Once the details are verified, the linked UAN can be identified.
This can be particularly useful for employees who have changed companies and no longer remember the UAN associated with their previous employment.
UAN can also be accessed through UMANG
EPFO-related services are also available through the UMANG app. Members can access EPFO services on the platform and use the available UAN-related options after completing the required mobile verification.
Since OTP-based authentication is involved in several EPFO services, members should ensure that their current mobile number is correctly linked to their records. A mismatch or outdated mobile number can make the verification process difficult.
Why is UAN important?
The UAN acts as a common link between the different PF Member IDs an employee may receive during their career. Instead of maintaining separate PF accounts after every job change, the UAN helps bring the member’s provident fund information under one identity.
It is also used for services such as checking PF details, transferring PF balances, updating KYC information and submitting eligible withdrawal claims online.
Employees should keep their UAN and registered mobile details secure. OTPs, passwords, Aadhaar information, PAN details and banking information should never be shared with unknown callers or through suspicious links claiming to offer EPFO-related assistance.
