EPFO Guide: How to Activate UAN via UMANG App Using Face Authentication to Access PF Services

The Employees Provident Fund Organisation has rolled out a major update for all its members. From tomorrow, i.e., August 7th, EPFO has made it mandatory to activate the Universal Account Number, or UAN, through the UMANG mobile app using Aadhaar based face authentication. Without completing this process, users will no longer be able to access core EPFO services like checking EPF balance, claim status, or updating KYC.

UAN Activation Now Mandatory Through Aadhaar Face Authentication

From now on, EPFO members will have to use the UMANG app for UAN activation. The Aadhaar-based face authentication method is designed to be quite user-friendly and secure. This will reduce the need for employer involvement in generating or activating UANs. According to EPFO, this system will ensure higher accuracy and faster access to member services. Once the UAN is activated, members can manage their provident fund accounts independently, even from remote locations.

How to Activate UAN via UMANG App: Step-by-Step Guide

For New UAN Generation:

Step 1: Download and open the UMANG app.
Step 2: Select "UAN Allotment and Activation".
Step 3: Enter your Aadhaar number and mobile number.
Step 4: Consent to Aadhaar verification and submit the OTP.
Step 5: Install the Aadhaar Face RD App if not already installed.
Step 6: Complete face authentication using the front camera.
Step 7: If no UAN is linked to your Aadhaar, a new one will be created and sent via SMS.

To Activate an Existing UAN:

Step 1: Go to "UAN Activation" in the UMANG App.
Step 2: Enter your existing UAN, Aadhaar, and mobile number.
Step 3: Consent and verify via OTP.
Step 4: Complete face scan for final verification.
Step 5: Receive a temporary password via SMS to access your UAN account.

To Update EPFO Records Using Face Scan:

Use the "Face Authentication of Already Activated UANs" option to verify Aadhaar and update EPFO records.
Benefits of This New EPFO Rule

Previously, many workers relied on their employers to generate or activate UANs, often leading to delays, incorrect information, or lack of access. According to EPFO data, only 35% of assigned UANs had been activated directly by users. Now that the process is simplified and fully online, it is helping employees check their EPF balance, submit claims, update KYC, and download their UAN cards without any external help.

This update is especially beneficial for employees in rural or remote areas, or those who frequently change jobs, as they can now activate and manage their UANs independently.

While the new Aadhaar face authentication process is compulsory for most users, exceptions apply to international workers and citizens of Nepal and Bhutan. These individuals must continue using the previous method for UAN activation and access EPFO services through their respective processes.

What Happens if You Don't Activate UAN?

If your UAN is not activated using the UMANG app starting August 7, you will lose access to all major EPFO services. These include checking your EPF balance, downloading your passbook, updating KYC information, or claiming benefits. It is now mandatory for every member to complete this step in order to manage their EPF account securely. Delaying the process could lead to account access issues and delays in benefit disbursal.