The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, launched a new digital facility that allows for the generation and activation of Universal Account Numbers (UAN) using Aadhaar-based Face Authentication Technology (FAT) through the UMANG mobile application.
In an official statement issued on Wednesday, the EPFO said the move aims to simplify the UAN allotment process, enhance data accuracy, and reduce reliance on employers for initiating UAN generation. The new system enables employees to independently generate and activate their UANs in a contactless and secure manner.
Previously, UANs were largely generated by employers using employee-submitted data. However, discrepancies in Aadhaar-linked information such as names, dates of birth, and mobile numbers often delayed services and created hurdles during claims processing. According to the EPFO, during the financial year 2024–25, out of 1.26 crore UANs allotted, only 44.68 lakh (35.3%) were activated by members.
With the new process, Aadhaar details are validated using face authentication, and personal information is auto-filled from the Aadhaar database. The mobile number is matched with the one linked to Aadhaar, and UAN activation is completed during the generation process itself. The employee receives the UAN via SMS and can immediately access EPFO services such as passbook viewing, KYC updates, and online claims.
To use the service, users are required to install both the UMANG and AadhaarFaceRD apps, enter their Aadhaar number and linked mobile number, provide consent, and complete a live photo capture for verification. Existing EPFO members who have not activated their UANs can also do so using the same method.
The EPFO said that the introduction of biometric face authentication ensures tamper-proof identity verification, reduces errors, and removes the need for employer or regional office intervention. Employers have been advised to encourage first-time employees to use this method for efficient registration and onboarding.
Additionally, the EPFO announced plans to promote the use of face authentication for submitting digital life certificates through Jeevan Pramaan. This will be carried out in collaboration with volunteers from My Bharat, who will assist pensioners at their doorsteps.
