EPFO Introduces Streamlined Online Transfer Claims with Aadhaar Linkage

In a bid to reduce delays and enhance efficiency, the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced reforms to streamline the online transfer claims process. The move aims to simplify the process of transferring Employee Provident Fund (EPF) balances between jobs.

As part of this initiative, EPFO is relying on Aadhaar numbers to verify member information and facilitate faster transfers. Members with UANs linked to the same name, date of birth, and gender as their Aadhaar will no longer require employer intervention in some cases.

The new reforms offer several advantages, including:

• Faster Transfers: With reduced need for employer intervention, the transfer process is set to become quicker.
• Convenient Management: Members can now manage transfers directly on the EPFO portal.
• Improved Transparency: Simplified procedures are expected to promote clarity and reduce reliance on employers.

However, members with UANs issued before October 1, 2017, will still require verification of their name, date of birth, and gender across both UAN and Aadhaar accounts for streamlined transfers.

EPFO has made it easier for members to link their EPF UAN with Aadhaar by following these simplified steps:

1. Visit the EPFO Member e-Sewa website.
2. Log in using UAN, password, and captcha.
3. Navigate to the ‘Manage’ menu and select ‘KYC’ option.
4. Check the box for Aadhaar and enter 12-digit Aadhaar number and name as appears on the card.
5. Click 'save' to submit information for verification.

Upon successful validation, EPFO will successfully link Aadhaar with EPF accounts, saving numerous person hours at both ends.

"This will lead to saving of several person hours both at the end of the employees and the EPFO staff. Moreover, the reduction in timelines and improvement in accuracy will help boost sentiment with the employed class," stated Jaideep Kewalramani, COO and Head of Employability Business, TeamLease, praising the initiative.

The introduction of these reforms is expected to enhance the overall efficiency of the PF transfer process and improve satisfaction among employees.