The Central Government has taken significant steps to streamline the distribution of subsidies and incentives through Aadhaar & Biometric Aadhaar Authentication. To maximize the benefits of the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme from the Union Budget 2024-25, the Ministry of Labour & Employment has instructed the EPFO to ensure that employers activate the Universal Account Number (UAN) for their employees.
The Importance of Aadhaar-based Verification
Using Aadhaar as an identity document simplifies government delivery processes, enhances transparency, and ensures beneficiaries receive their entitlements seamlessly. It eliminates the need to produce multiple documents to prove one’s identity, making the process smoother and more efficient.
Step-by-Step Guide to UAN Activation
In the first stage, employers are required to complete the UAN activation process through Aadhaar-based OTP for all employees joining in the current financial year by 15th January 2025 (extended from 30th November 2024 wide letter dated 20th Dec 2024). Here are the steps to follow:
- Visit the EPFO Member Portal: Go to the portal* and click on the “Activate UAN” link under “Important Links”.
- Enter Details: Fill in your UAN, Aadhaar number, name, date of birth, and Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
- Verify Mobile Number: Verify your mobile number by ensuring it is Aadhaar-linked to access EPFO’s digital services.
- Aadhaar OTP Verification: Agree to the Aadhaar OTP verification, then click “Get Authorization PIN” to receive an OTP on your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
- Complete Activation: Enter the OTP to complete the activation. Portal will sent a password to your registered mobile number upon successful activation.
*UAN can be activated through UMANG Application.
Benefits of UAN Activation
Activating the UAN provides employees with seamless access to EPFO’s comprehensive online services. Employees can efficiently manage their Provident Fund (PF) accounts, view and download PF passbooks, submit online claims for withdrawals, advances, or transfers, update personal details, and track claims in real time. This eliminates the need for physical visits to EPFO offices, allowing employees 24/7 access from the comfort of their homes.
Non activation of UAN
Since the ELI Scheme will disburse benefits through DBT to eligible employees, employers should ensure they activate UAN and seed AADHAAR in bank accounts by 15th January 2025 for all employees who have joined in the current financial year, starting with the latest joinees. Without UAN activation employees can not access UAN related services online. It will create hurlde in disbursing benefits under the ELI Scheme.
Future Enhancements
In the second stage, UAN activation will include the advanced feature of Biometric authentication through Face-recognition Technology. As a result, this addition will further simplify and secure the process.
By ensuring UAN activation through Aadhaar-based OTP, employers and employees can enjoy the full benefits of government schemes with ease and efficiency.
