How to Activate Your UAN: A Step-by-Step Guide
Oct 15, 2024
The Universal Account Number is a crucial identification number allotted by the Employee Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) to all employees contributing to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) scheme in India. UAN activation online is a simple process that enables you to access various EPFO services, like checking your PF balance, updating your KYC details and transferring your PF account when changing jobs. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of how to activate UAN and explain its importance for your financial well-being.
Why is UAN Activation Important?
- Seamless PF Account Management: You can easily access your PF account details, view your balance and download your PF passbook online.
- Simplified Job Changes: You can easily transfer your PF account when changing jobs, eliminating the need for a new PF account creation.
- Online Claims and Withdrawals: It allows you to file online claims for partial withdrawals, final settlements and pension benefits.
- Updating KYC Details: You can update your personal information, such as your address, mobile number and email ID, through the EPFO portal.
How to Activate UAN?
- Visit the official EPFO website at https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in/memberinterface/.
- Click on the “Activate UAN” option under the “Manage” section.
- Enter your Universal Account Number, Member ID (PF account number), mobile number and captcha code.
- Click on the “Get Authorisation Pin” button. You will receive an OTP on your registered mobile number.
- Enter the OTP and click on the “Validate OTP and Activate UAN” button.
- You will receive a confirmation message post activation.
Factors to Consider for UAN Activation
- Accurate Information: Ensure that your personal details, such as your name, date of birth and mobile number, match the information provided in your EPF account. Mismatched details may delay or prevent activation.
- Registered Mobile Number: A valid mobile number is essential for activation. You’ll receive an OTP (One-Time Password) on this number to verify your identity during the activation process.
- Aadhaar / PAN Linking: Make sure your Universal Account Number is linked with your Aadhaar / PAN for seamless access to services like withdrawals, transfers and corrections.
- Employer Contribution: Verify that your employer has made the necessary contributions to your EPF account, as this affects the functioning of your UAN.
- Correct EPF Member ID: Ensure that your EPF member ID is correctly mapped to your UAN. If you’ve changed jobs, your previous and current EPF IDs should be linked to the same Universal Account Number.
- Access to Portal: Once activated, you can log in to the EPFO portal, where you can check your balance, request transfers and make withdrawals.
Also Read: How to check EPF Balance
Solving Common Issues During UAN Activation Online
- Ensure that your UAN is linked to your PF account number and Aadhaar.
- Verify that your mobile number is registered with the EPFO.
- Check if your employer has submitted your KYC details to the EPFO.
- Contact your employer or the EPFO helpdesk for assistance if the issue persists.
Benefits of Having an Active UAN
- Easy access to your PF account details and balance.
- Simplified PF account transfers during job changes.
- Option to file online claims for withdrawals and settlements.
- Ability to update your personal information linked to your UAN.
- Improved transparency and control over your PF account.
Circumstances for Money Withdrawal with an Active UAN
- Retirement: After reaching the age of 58 years, you can withdraw the entire sum from your PF account. An active UAN allows for quick access and processing of retirement benefits.
- Unemployment: If an employee has been jobless for two months, they can withdraw 75% of their PF balance using their active UAN account. If unemployment lasts longer than two months, the remaining 25% can be taken out as well.
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Partial Withdrawal: You can partially withdraw funds for specified reasons, such as:
- Medical Treatment: Partial withdrawal is permitted in the event of a serious sickness for you or your immediate family.
- Education: You may withdraw funds for your own or children’s higher education expenditures.
- Marriage: Partial withdrawal for the marriage of oneself, siblings or children is allowed.
- Home Loan Repayment or Property Purchase: Withdrawals are permissible for house loan repayment or property purchase.
- Resignation or Job Change: While it is typical to transfer the PF balance to a new company, you have the option to withdraw the whole PF balance after two months of leaving a job.
- Financial Emergencies: During a financial crisis, such as a pandemic or natural disaster, the government permits full withdrawals under such special conditions.
How UAN Activation Can Help You Access Business Loans
Having an active UAN can help when you apply for business loans. Many financial institutions, including online business loan providers, consider your employment stability and income while evaluating your eligibility for business loans. EPFO activation demonstrates your employment history and regular income, which can improve your chances of securing a quick business loan.
Moreover, if you are a female entrepreneur seeking out a business loan for women, having an active UAN can showcase your professional background and financial stability, making you a low-risk borrower to lenders. Women can secure financing with lowered business loan interest rates, desired repayment tenure and other favourable loan terms.
Secure Hassle-Free Business Loans with FlexiLoans
If you are a business owner looking for a line of credit to meet your financial needs, having an active Universal Account Number can improve your chances of securing funding. Consider applying for an unsecured business loan via FlexiLoans, a leading online lending platform that offers hassle-free and collateral-free business loans in a complete streamlined digital process. Ensure your business loan eligibility and apply online today to unlock unparalleled growth potential of your business.
Conclusion
UAN activation is a simple yet crucial step in managing your PF account and ensuring a secure financial future. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can easily get UAN activated and enjoy the benefits of seamless PF account management, simplified job changes and online claim filing.
With an active Universal Account Number, you can enhance your chances of securing your desired loan for business with flexible repayment options and competitive interest rates. As an employee in any organisation, EPFO activation is one of the many things a lender checks before releasing funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How to activate UAN?
You can activate UAN by visiting the official website of EPFO. -
How can I check if my UAN is active?
You can check your activation status by logging into the EPFO member portal with your credentials. If you can access your PF account details and balance, your UAN is active. -
What should I do if I face issues during UAN activation online?
Ensure that your UAN is linked to your PF account number and Aadhaar, your mobile number is registered with the EPFO, and your employer has submitted your KYC details. Contact your employer or the EPFO helpdesk for further assistance. -
Can having an active UAN help me secure an online business loan?
Yes, it can demonstrate your employment stability and regular income, which can improve your chances of securing a collateral free business loan from online lenders. -
Are there any specific business loans for women entrepreneurs with active UANs?
There are various government initiative that facilitate business loan for women. Some of these are Annapurana Yojana, Udyogini Scheme, Dena Shakti Scheme and Stree Shakti Package. -
Is UAN activation mandatory?
Yes, it is mandatory for accessing various EPF-related services and to manage your EPF account online. -
Can I activate UAN without a registered mobile number?
No, a registered mobile number is necessary to receive the authorisation pin during the online activation process. Update your mobile number with your employer if needed. -
How long does it take for UAN to get activated?
After completing the online activation process, your Universal Account Number usually gets activated immediately. However, in some cases, it may take up to 24 hours.