When navigating the realms of finance and employment, many acronyms and identification numbers come into play, each carrying profound importance. Among these identifiers, the UAN number (Universal Account Number) stands out prominently. Grasping the essence of UAN numbers and comprehending their functionality becomes indispensable for both employees and employers. In this detailed guidebook, you can explore the depths of UAN numbers and their tremendous impact on professional lives.
List of Contents
- What Is a UAN Number?
- Documents Required to Generate UAN Number
- How to Generate UAN Number?
- UAN Number Activation and Login
- Common Issues and Troubleshooting for UAN Number Activation and Login
- How to Check UAN Number
- 1. Visit the EPFO Portal
- 2. Select “For Employees.”
- 3. Choose “Our Services”
- 4. Pick “Member UAN/Online Service (OCS/OTCP)”
- 5. Click on “Know Your UAN Status”
- 6. Give the information asked for
- 7. Enter the Captcha
- 8. Click “Get Authorization Pin”
- 9. Type in the OTP
- 10. Click on “Validate OTP and Get UAN”
- 11. Get your UAN
- How to Link Aadhaar with UAN Number
- How to Link Multiple EPF Accounts with UAN Number
- UAN Number vs. PF Account Number
- Benefits of the UAN Number
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What Is a UAN Number?

UAN stands for Universal Account Number. It is a unique identification number issued by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) to employees covered under the EPF (Employees’ Provident Fund) scheme. The UAN acts as a consolidated number that links multiple Member Identification Numbers (MIN) allotted to an employee by various establishments.
Documents Required to Generate UAN Number

Certain documents are required for verification to generate a UAN (Universal Account Number). These UAN full forms play a vital role in establishing your identity and ensuring the accuracy of your information. Here is a list of the typical documents needed for UAN generation:
1. Aadhaar Card
The Aadhaar card, issued by the Government of India, is a unique identification document containing your biometric and demographic details. It serves as proof of identity and address, making it an essential requirement for UAN generation.
2. PAN Card
The PAN (Permanent Account Number) card, issued by the Income Tax Department, is a ten-digit alphanumeric identification number used for financial transactions. It acts as proof of identity and is also necessary for the UAN generation.
3. Bank Account Details
You must provide your bank account details, including the bank name, branch, account number, and IFSC (Indian Financial System Code), to link your EPF account with your bank account for seamless transactions.
4. Address Proof
It may be necessary to submit a valid address proof document, such as a utility bill (electricity bill, water bill, etc.), ration card, or passport.
5. Passport-sized Photograph
A recent passport-sized photograph is required for official records and identification purposes.
By submitting these documents for verification, you can initiate the process of generating your UAN number (Universal Account Number). This unique identifier will facilitate streamlined management of your EPF account, ensuring efficient handling of your contributions and benefits.
How to Generate UAN Number?

To generate a UAN (Universal Account Number), follow these steps:
1. Join an EPF-Covered Organization
To be eligible for a UAN number, you must join an organization under the EPF scheme. Most private sector companies and organizations with a minimum employee strength are covered under this scheme.
2. Employer’s Role
Once you join an EPF-covered organization, your employer will initiate the process of generating a UAN number for you. They will collect your Know Your Customer (KYC) documents, such as your Aadhaar card, PAN card, and bank account details.
3. Submit the KYC Documents
You need to submit the required KYC documents to your employer for verification. Ensure that the information provided is accurate and matches the details in your official identification documents.
4. Employer Verification
After you submit your KYC documents, your employer will verify the information provided. They will cross-check the details with your submitted documents to ensure accuracy and authenticity.
5. UAN Generation
Once the employer completes the verification process, they will generate your UAN number. The EPFO (Employees’ Provident Fund Organization) will allot a unique UAN number associated with your employment.
6. UAN Communication
After the UAN is generated, your employer will communicate the UAN number to you. They may provide it through your pay slip, employment documents, or other suitable means. Make sure to keep your UAN number safe and secure.
7. Activate UAN
To access and manage your EPF account online, you must activate your UAN. Visit the EPFO’s UAN member portal and click on the activation link. Provide your UAN, mobile number, and other required details to activate your UAN and set a password.
Once you have successfully generated and activated your UAN number, a gateway of advantages awaits you. Experience the convenience of centralized EPF account management, effortlessly navigate through job transitions, and enjoy the ease of accessing your EPF account information online. It is imperative to remember that your employer facilitates the process of UAN generation. Maintaining regular communication with them is crucial to complete all necessary steps promptly.
UAN Number Activation and Login

Activating your UAN (Universal Account Number) and logging into your EPF (Employee Provident Fund) account is simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. UAN Number Activation
– Visit the EPFO (Employees’ Provident Fund Organization) member portal.
– Click on the “Activate UAN” option.
– Provide your UAN, mobile number, and PF member ID.
– Click on “Get Authorization PIN.”
– An authorization PIN will be sent to your registered mobile number.
– Enter the PIN and click “Validate OTP and Activate UAN.”
– Your UAN will be successfully activated.
2. Log in to the EPF Account
– Go to the EPFO member portal.
– Enter your UAN and password.
– If you haven’t set a password, click “Forgot Password” to create one.
– Follow the instructions to set a new password.
– Once logged in, you can access various services and information related to your EPF account.
Please ensure that the mobile number and PF member ID you provide during UAN activation are the ones associated with your EPF account. If you encounter any difficulties during the activation or login process, you can seek assistance by contacting the EPFO helpline.
You can access various services by activating your UAN and logging into your EPF account, including checking your EPF balance, updating KYC details, initiating transfers or withdrawals, and more. Keep your login credentials secure and regularly monitor your EPF account for updates or changes.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting for UAN Number Activation and Login

Here are a few problems you may come across and troubleshooting steps to resolve them:
Issue | Details | Troubleshooting |
---|---|---|
1. Invalid UAN or Member ID | You receive an error message stating that your UAN or Member ID needs to be validated. | Double-check the UAN and Member ID entered during the activation process. Ensure that you enter the correct numbers without any typos. If you need clarification on your UAN or Member ID, contact your employer’s HR department or the EPFO helpline for assistance. |
2. Authorization PIN not received | You didn’t receive the authorization PIN on your registered mobile number during UAN activation. | – Wait for some time and check if you receive the PIN. – Ensure that you have a stable network connection and good mobile network coverage. – If the PIN doesn’t arrive after a reasonable period, click on the option to resend the PIN. |
3. Forgotten Password | You need to remember your EPF account password and log in. | – On the EPFO member portal, click the “Forgot Password” option. – Enter your UAN and registered mobile number. You will receive an OTP (One-Time Password) on your mobile. -Enter the OTP and proceed to set a new password. Choose a strong password and note it securely for future reference. |
4. Technical Glitches or Server Issues | You encounter technical glitches or server-related problems while accessing the EPFO member portal. | Try again after some time. Technical issues or server downtime may occur occasionally. Clear your browser cache and cookies, or try accessing the portal using a different browser. If the problem persists, contact the EPFO helpline or wait for the technical issue to be resolved. |
How to Check UAN Number

Follow these step-by-step guide to do UAN number check:
1. Visit the EPFO Portal
Go to https://www.epfindia.gov.in/, the main website of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO).
2. Select “For Employees.”
Find the “For Employees” tab in the main menu on the EPFO home page and click on it.
3. Choose “Our Services”
Under the “For Employees” tab, choose “Our Services” from the drop-down menu.
4. Pick “Member UAN/Online Service (OCS/OTCP)”
Find “Member UAN/Online Service (OCS/OTCP)” on the “Our Services” page and click on it.
5. Click on “Know Your UAN Status”
Find the “Know Your UAN Status” link in the “Member UAN/Online Service (OCS/OTCP)” part and click on it.
6. Give the information asked for
You will be asked for some information on the “Know Your UAN Status” page. Enter your valid Aadhaar number, PAN number, or EPF member ID, along with your name, date of birth, cell phone number, and email address.
7. Enter the Captcha
Enter the characters shown in the captcha picture to finish the verification process.
8. Click “Get Authorization Pin”
After entering all the necessary information, click the “Get Authorization Pin” button. A One-Time Password, or OTP, will be sent to the phone number you put on your EPF account.
9. Type in the OTP
Get the OTP from your mobile phone and type it into the area on the website where it says to.
10. Click on “Validate OTP and Get UAN”
After entering the OTP, click the “Validate OTP and Get UAN” button.
11. Get your UAN
If the information you gave is correct, your UAN number will be shown on the screen. Make sure to write down your UAN so you can find it again.
By doing these things, you can easily know your UAN no. online. Ensure that the information you give matches the news on your EPF account.
How to Link Aadhaar with UAN Number

To link your Aadhaar with your UAN (Universal Account Number), you can follow these steps:
1. Visit the EPFO UAN Portal
Go to the EPFO UAN member portal by accessing the official website at https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in/memberinterface/.
2. Access Your UAN Account by Entering
On the homepage of the UAN member portal, input your UAN, password, and captcha in the corresponding fields. To log into your account, click the “Sign In” option.
3. Go to “Profile”
After successfully logging in, navigate to the “Profile” section. Typically, it can be found in the primary menu or dashboard.
4. Select “Update KYC Information”
In the “Profile” section, locate the option to update your KYC (Know Your Customer) information and click on it. Find the “Update KYC Information” link and select it.
5. Select “Aadhaar” as KYC Document
You will see various options for different documents in the KYC update form. Choose “Aadhaar” as the document type to link your Aadhaar with UAN.
6. Enter Aadhaar Details
Enter your Aadhaar number, name as per Aadhaar, and other required details accurately in the provided fields.
7. Save and Submit
After entering your Aadhaar details, click on the “Save” or “Submit” button to save the changes and initiate linking your Aadhaar with UAN.
8. Verification by Employer
Once you have submitted the update, your employer will verify the information provided and approve the linkage of Aadhaar with UAN. Depending on your employer’s procedures, the verification process may take some time.
9. Confirmation of Aadhaar Linking
After your employer completes the verification process, you will receive a confirmation regarding the successful linking of your Aadhaar with UAN.
Following these steps, you can link your Aadhaar with UAN, which will help streamline your EPF (Employees’ Provident Fund) account and conveniently avail of various EPF services.
How to Link Multiple EPF Accounts with UAN Number

To link multiple EPF accounts with UAN, follow the steps below:
1. Activate your UAN
Visit the EPFO member portal and click the “Activate UAN” option. Enter your UAN, mobile number, and PF member ID. Click on “Get Authorization PIN” and enter the received PIN to activate your UAN.
2. Log in to the EPFO Member Portal
Using your UAN and password, access the EPFO member portal. You can generate one on the portal if you need a password.
3. Provide KYC Details
Navigate to the “Manage” tab and select “KYC.” Fill in the necessary details such as Aadhaar, PAN, and bank account information. Upload scanned copies of the required supporting documents and save the data.
4. Verify KYC details
The EPFO will verify your KYC details internally. Once verified, your KYC status will be updated.
5. Link EPF accounts with UAN
Go to the “Online Services” tab and select “One Member – One EPF Account (Transfer Request).” Follow the instructions provided and proceed to submit the transfer request. Enter your current EPF account details and check eligibility. If eligible, submit the request for attestation by your previous employer. Once attested, the EPF account balance will be transferred to the new account linked to your UAN.
Following these steps, you can easily link multiple EPF accounts with UAN and ensure efficient management of your EPF contributions.
UAN Number vs. PF Account Number

UAN and PF Account numbers are two different identification numbers associated with the Employee Provident Fund (EPF) scheme. The UAN Number is a unique identification number assigned to every employee enrolled in the EPF scheme. It is a permanent and centralized identifier that remains the same throughout an individual’s employment journey, even if they change jobs or switch employers. The UAN Number is a single reference point for all EPF accounts linked to an employee, making it convenient to access and manage their EPF contributions and benefits.
On the other hand, the PF Account Number refers to a specific account number assigned to an employee’s EPF (Employee Provident Fund) account by their employer. It serves as an identifier for the EPF account linked to a specific job or employer. The employer contributes a portion of the employee’s salary to the EPF account to contribute to the employee’s future financial security.
Each PF Account Number is unique to an individual’s employment with a particular employer. It enables the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) to accurately track and manage the contributions made by the employer and the employee during a specific period. By having a dedicated PF Account Number, employees, and the EPFO can effectively monitor and manage the contributions and benefits associated with their EPF account for a particular job or employer.
The UAN Number is a universal identification number that remains constant throughout an employee’s career, linking all their EPF accounts. At the same time, the PF Account Number is specific to each job or employer, representing the EPF account associated with that particular employment period. Both numbers are crucial in managing and tracking EPF employee contributions and benefits.
Benefits of the UAN Number

The UAN (Universal Account Number) has several benefits for employees enrolled in the Employee Provident Fund (EPF) scheme. Here are some of the advantages of having a UAN Number:
Portability
One of the key benefits of the UAN Number is portability. It remains the same throughout an employee’s career, irrespective of job changes or transfers. This means that even if an employee switches employers, their UAN Number remains constant. It allows the seamless transfer of EPF funds and continuity of benefits without opening a new EPF account with each employer.
Consolidation of EPF Accounts
With the UAN Number, employees can link multiple EPF accounts together. This feature enables consolidating all EPF accounts under a single UAN, making it easier for employees to track and manage their EPF contributions. It eliminates the hassle of maintaining separate EPF accounts for different jobs, streamlining the process and providing a comprehensive view of their EPF savings.
Online Access and Services
The UAN Number enables employees to access a range of online services provided by the EPFO (Employees’ Provident Fund Organization). Through the UAN portal, employees can view their EPF account details, download passbooks, check the status of EPF claims, update KYC details, and even initiate EPF transfers. The UAN Number ensures convenient and efficient online management of EPF accounts.
Easy Withdrawals and Transfers
The UAN Number simplifies the process of EPF withdrawals and transfers. Employees can quickly initiate withdrawal requests online, avoiding the need for physical paperwork and reducing processing time. Additionally, if an employee changes jobs, they can request the transfer of their EPF funds from the previous employer’s account to the new employer’s account linked to the same UAN Number.
Access to EPF Services Anytime
With the UAN Number, employees can access EPF services anytime, anywhere. They can conveniently check their EPF balance, track contributions, view transaction details, and update personal information online. This accessibility ensures transparency and empowers employees to stay informed about their EPF savings.
The UAN Number offers various benefits, such as portability, consolidation of EPF accounts, online access to services, simplified withdrawals and transfers, and convenient access to EPF information. It enhances the overall experience of managing EPF contributions, giving employees greater control over their retirement savings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the UAN (Universal Account Number) is a game-changer in simplifying and streamlining the management of EPF (Employee Provident Fund) accounts. With its portability, consolidation, and online access features, the UAN empowers employees to link multiple EPF accounts, access services anytime, and track their contributions and benefits. It eliminates the hassle of opening new accounts with each employer and provides a centralized platform for seamless fund transfers and withdrawals. By activating and logging into their UAN, employees gain control over their EPF savings, ensuring transparency and convenience. The UAN revolutionizes the EPF experience, making it easier for individuals to secure their financial future.
FAQs
UAN number means a unique identification number assigned to employees enrolled in the EPF (Employee Provident Fund) scheme. It remains the same throughout an individual’s career and is a centralized reference for all EPF accounts.
You can find your UAN number on your salary slips, through your employer, or by visiting the EPFO member portal and using your PF member ID and other details to retrieve it.
Yes, the UAN is a 12-digit number assigned to each employee enrolled in the EPF scheme.
Individuals do not create the UAN number. It is generated by the EPFO (Employees’ Provident Fund Organization) and provided to employees through their employers.
Yes, UAN is mandatory for all employees enrolled in the EPF scheme. It ensures better management and tracking of EPF contributions and benefits.
If you forget your UAN number, you can retrieve it by visiting the EPFO member portal and providing your PF member ID and other required details. You can also contact your employer or the EPFO helpline for assistance.
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