UAN Activation Made Easy: Activate Your EPFO UAN via UMANG App Using Face Authentication

In a major digital upgrade for millions of Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) subscribers, the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has discontinued the facility to activate or generate a Universal Account Number (UAN) through its official website.

Going forward, all UAN activation and new UAN generation services will be available exclusively through the UMANG app, with Aadhaar-based Face Authentication (Face Auth) now made mandatory to improve security and prevent identity fraud.

According to EPFO, the move follows a comprehensive database consolidation and software upgrade aimed at delivering faster, safer, and more seamless online services.

What's New in the EPFO UAN Activation Process?

Under the new system:

UAN activation through the EPFO website has been discontinued.

New UAN generation will now take place only via the UMANG app.

Aadhaar-linked Face Authentication is compulsory for identity verification.

The updated process is designed to enhance security and simplify digital services for EPF members.

How to Check Whether Your UAN Is Already Activated

EPFO has also made it easier to verify your UAN activation status through the UMANG app.

Follow these simple steps:

Open the UMANG App.

Navigate to "UAN Services Through Face Auth."

Select "UAN Allotment and Activation."

Enter your UAN, Aadhaar number, and registered mobile number.

Accept the consent declaration.

Click "Send OTP."

Complete the Aadhaar-based Face Authentication process.

If your UAN is already active, the screen will display:

"The UAN entered is already activated."

EPF Interest Rate Remains at 8.25%

In another relief for EPF subscribers, the Ministry of Finance has approved an 8.25% annual interest rate on EPF deposits for the FY 2025–26.

This marks the third consecutive financial year in which EPF subscribers will receive interest at the same rate, ensuring stable returns on retirement savings.

Know the EPF Withdrawal Rules

Subscribers planning to withdraw funds should keep the latest EPFO rules in mind.

A minimum 25% balance must remain in the EPF account.

During employment, members can withdraw up to 75% of their eligible balance under applicable conditions.

Full settlement is generally permitted only after leaving employment, subject to EPFO rules.

Why EPFO Introduced Face Authentication

EPFO's shift to Aadhaar-based Face Authentication is intended to:

Strengthen identity verification.

Reduce fraud and duplicate accounts.

Enable faster digital processing.

Improve the overall user experience.

Make EPF services more secure and paperless.