The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has launched a new digital initiative to simplify the process of generating and activating the Universal Account Number (UAN). This system uses Aadhaar-based Face Authentication Technology (FAT), marking a significant shift from the older, employer-driven model.

This development, integrated through the UMANG app, aims to reduce errors, remove dependency on employers, and enhance the overall user experience.

What Has Changed in UAN Generation and Activation

Previously, employees relied heavily on their employers to generate their UANs. This process often led to:

• Errors in personal details, such as incorrect mobile numbers or father’s names

• Lack of communication from employers regarding the UAN

• Delays in UAN activation, thereby limiting access to EPFO services

In the financial year 2024-25, EPFO issued over 1.26 crore UANs, but only 35% were activated. Activation previously required a separate Aadhaar OTP step, creating confusion and leaving many accounts dormant.

With the new system, employees can now take control of the process, initiating and completing UAN activation themselves using their Aadhaar-linked mobile number and face authentication.

New UAN Generation Process Using Face Authentication

The EPFO's new digital solution is both user-friendly and efficient, thanks to the integration of UMANG and AadhaarFaceRD apps.

Steps to Generate and Activate UAN Using Face Authentication:

1. Download the UMANG and AadhaarFaceRD apps from the Play Store

2. Open the UMANG app and navigate to “UAN Allotment and Activation” under UAN services

3. Enter your Aadhaar number and the Aadhaar-linked mobile number

4. Provide consent and validate using the OTP sent to your mobile

5. Capture a live photograph using your phone’s camera

6. The app then matches the photo with Aadhaar records

7. Once authenticated, the UAN is generated and activated automatically

8. You will receive your UAN via SMS, and the e-UAN card can be downloaded instantly

Key Benefits of the New UAN System

The move to face authentication provides several key advantages:

• No employer involvement required, making it a self-service option

• Aadhaar face match ensures accurate identity validation, preventing impersonation

• Mobile number is auto-verified with Aadhaar, reducing mismatches

• UAN is instantly activated, allowing immediate access to EPFO services

• Errors due to manual data entry are significantly reduced

These improvements streamline the entire onboarding process, helping more members activate and use their UANs effectively.

Access to EPFO Services Made Instant

Once the UAN is activated, employees can instantly use several EPFO digital services, such as:

• Viewing the PF passbook

• Submitting claims online

• Updating KYC details

• Linking multiple EPF accounts

• Tracking the claim status

This shift towards a fully digital system increases transparency and efficiency in managing retirement savings.

Helping Existing UAN Holders

For those who already have a UAN but haven’t activated it yet, the face authentication process can also be used to activate the UAN via the UMANG app.

This ensures that existing EPFO members can also benefit from the simplified and secure system, rather than going through cumbersome processes.

Extension to Pensioners via My Bharat Collaboration

The use of face authentication technology is not limited to just employees. EPFO is also extending the feature to benefit pensioners.

In collaboration with My Bharat, the government will use youth volunteers to help senior citizens submit their Digital Life Certificates (DLC) at their homes using Jeevan Pramaan and face authentication.

This approach eliminates the need for pensioners to physically visit banks or EPFO offices, providing them convenience and dignity in the process.

A Step Toward Inclusive Digital Governance

With this update, EPFO is embracing Digital India’s mission and making a significant stride toward inclusive digital governance. The face authentication method reduces the digital divide, especially for those who may find it difficult to navigate complex systems.

Moreover, integrating Aadhaar ensures a higher degree of data integrity, reducing fraudulent claims and duplicate UANs.

Why This Matters for the Workforce

This change is particularly impactful for:

• New job entrants who don’t have a UAN

• Gig and contractual workers often missed in employer-run systems

• Workers in rural areas with limited digital literacy

• Frequent job switchers needing to consolidate their EPF accounts

By making UAN generation more accessible and seamless, EPFO is helping millions of Indians stay connected to their retirement benefits, regardless of their employment status or location.

Final Thoughts

The EPFO’s new Aadhaar-based face authentication UAN process is a game changer in the way employees access retirement-related services. It not only empowers the individual but also promotes accuracy, speed, and transparency in the system.

This step is expected to dramatically increase UAN activation rates, ensure better coverage of EPFO benefits, and encourage more employees to stay connected with their long-term financial well-being.

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