A Complete User Guide for First-Time EPF Members
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced a simplified way for employees to generate and activate their Universal Account Number (UAN) directly through the UMANG App using Face Authentication Technology (FAT). This eliminates the need to visit an EPFO office or depend on your employer for UAN generation.
This guide explains everything you need to know to generate your UAN successfully.
What is UAN?
A Universal Account Number (UAN) is a unique 12-digit number assigned by EPFO to every employee contributing to the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF).
Once your UAN is activated, you can:
- View your EPF passbook
- Update KYC details
- Transfer PF accounts
- Submit online claims
- Access various EPFO services
The UMANG app now allows users to generate and activate their UAN in a single process using Aadhaar-based face authentication.
Prerequisites
Before starting the process, make sure you have:
- A valid Aadhaar Number
- A mobile number linked with Aadhaar
- Internet connectivity
- The latest version of the UMANG App
- Aadhaar Face RD App installed (if prompted during the process)
These requirements are mandatory for identity verification and face authentication.
Step-by-Step Guide to Generate a New UAN
Step 1: Open the UMANG App
Launch the UMANG App on your smartphone.
Navigate to:
EPFO → UAN Allotment and Activation
This option is specifically meant for individuals who do not already have a UAN.
Step 2: Enter Your Details
Provide the following information:
- Aadhaar Number
- Mobile Number
Then:
- Tick the Aadhaar consent checkbox.
- Tap Send OTP.
If the Aadhaar Face RD App is not installed, the app will prompt you to install it before proceeding.
Step 3: Verify OTP
An OTP will be sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
Enter the OTP to continue.
If OTP verification fails, you can request another OTP and try again.
Step 4: UAN Availability Check
The system automatically checks whether a UAN has already been allotted against your Aadhaar.
If a UAN already exists
- You will receive a notification.
- The process ends.
- You can use the existing UAN instead of creating a new one.
If no UAN exists
The application proceeds to Face Authentication.
Step 5: Complete Face Authentication
To verify your identity:
- Accept the consent for face authentication.
- Tap Face Authentication.
- Position your face clearly within the camera frame.
- Complete the facial scan.
The authentication is performed using UIDAI's Aadhaar Face Authentication service.
Step 6: UAN Generation
After successful authentication:
- EPFO validates your Aadhaar information.
- A new Universal Account Number (UAN) is generated.
- Your UAN is automatically activated.
- The UAN is sent to your registered mobile number through SMS.
What Happens After UAN Generation?
Once your UAN has been generated successfully, you can immediately begin using EPFO's online services, including:
- Viewing your EPF passbook
- Updating KYC information
- Submitting online claims
- Accessing other EPFO member services
The face authentication process ensures that your Aadhaar details are verified and pre-populated, reducing manual intervention and improving accuracy.
Common Issues and Solutions
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Invalid Aadhaar or Mobile Number | Verify the details and try again. |
| OTP Not Received | Resend the OTP and ensure your Aadhaar-linked mobile is active. |
| Face Authentication Failed | Retry in good lighting with a clear face position. If the issue persists, contact support. |
| UAN Already Exists | Use the existing UAN instead of generating a new one. |
Tips for Successful Face Authentication
To improve the success rate:
- Ensure adequate lighting.
- Remove sunglasses or face coverings.
- Keep the camera steady.
- Look directly into the camera.
- Maintain a stable internet connection.
Need Help?
If you continue facing issues while generating your UAN:
- Contact the UMANG Helpdesk through the app.
- Reach out to EPFO Customer Support for further assistance.
Conclusion
The UMANG App has made UAN generation faster, simpler, and more secure by integrating Aadhaar-based Face Authentication Technology. Eligible employees can now generate and activate their UAN independently within minutes using their smartphone, without requiring employer intervention.