UAN — Universal Account Number
Your single, lifelong EPF identity across every employer.
About this guide
The Universal Account Number (UAN) is a 12-digit number allotted by EPFO to every EPF member. Each employer gives you a new Member ID, but all of them are linked to one UAN, so you can view balances, transfer PF and file claims online from one login.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 12 digits |
| Issued by | EPFO via employer |
| Validity | Lifetime — never changes |
| Portal | unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in |
| Also on | UMANG app |
| Activation | Aadhaar-based OTP / face authentication |
How to activate your UAN
- Get your UANFind it on your payslip or ask HR.
- Open the member portalClick “Activate UAN”.
- Enter detailsUAN, Aadhaar, name, date of birth, Aadhaar-linked mobile.
- Verify OTPAuthorise with Aadhaar OTP (or face authentication in UMANG, as introduced for new members).
- Set passwordPassword is sent by SMS; change it after first login.
- Complete KYCSeed Aadhaar, PAN and bank account; employer approves.
How to find a forgotten UAN
| Member portal | Click “Know your UAN”, enter Aadhaar-linked mobile and verify with OTP. |
| Payslip / Form 16 | Many employers print UAN on the payslip. |
| Missed call / SMS | Give a missed call to 9966044425 from the registered mobile (UAN must be KYC-seeded). |
UAN KYC checklist
| Aadhaar | Mandatory for online claims |
| PAN | Avoids higher TDS on early withdrawal |
| Bank account + IFSC | Needed for claim settlement |
| Photo & e-nomination | Required for many online services |
Useful tips
- Keep the Aadhaar-linked mobile number active
- Match name/DOB/gender with Aadhaar exactly
- Merge old member IDs via online transfer
- Never share your UAN password or OTP
Frequently asked questions
Can one person have two UANs?
No. Report duplicates to EPFO/employer to deactivate the extra UAN and transfer balances.
Does UAN change with a new job?
No — only the Member ID changes.
Can I generate UAN myself?
Normally the employer generates it; a direct UAN allotment facility through UMANG with face authentication is available for new members.
Information is for education and comparison. Interest rates are notified by the Government every quarter and scheme rules can change — confirm with India Post, your bank, EPFO or PFRDA before investing. FinancePortal is not a financial or tax adviser.