UAN (Universal Account Number)
UAN stands for Universal Account Number. It is a unique 12-digit number issued by the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation to every employee who contributes to the Provident Fund (PF).
It acts as an umbrella for multiple PF accounts (also called Member IDs). Instead of managing separate member accounts, the UAN links all IDs in one place. Previous PF accounts can be linked to your UAN through PF transfer or employer update.
Difference Between UAN and Provident Fund Number
If you have any confusion regarding the UAN and PF account number, this table will help you to understand the difference:
"UAN remains the same throughout your career, while PF account numbers change with each job."
| Basis | UAN | PF Account Number |
|---|---|---|
| Full Form | Universal Account Number | Provident Fund Account Number |
| What it is | A unique number is given to each employee. | A detailed account number for PF contributions |
| Number Format | 12-digit numeric | 22-digit alphanumeric |
| Purpose | Links multiple PF accounts of an employee | Tracks PF contributions with a specific employer |
| Nature | Remains the same | Changes with the job |
| Issued By | EPFO | EPFO (through employer) |
Note: Member ID is 7-digits part of the PF account number that helps in the employee's account identification.
How is UAN Generated?
UMANG AppEPFO ServicesUAN Services (Face Auth)UAN AllotmentEnter Aadhaar & MobileOTP VerifyFace verificationUAN Generated (SMS)
Here are the simple steps for EPFO UAN generation:
Note: As of early 2026, UAN activation is no longer primarily done on the EPFO portal. UAN activation and generation are done through the UMANG App using Aadhaar-based Face Authentication (FAT).
UAN KYC is required to verify your Aadhaar, PAN, and bank details. It is the same as EPF KYC managed by the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation. You can update it online for smooth claim processing.
- Steps to Update UAN DetailsLog in to the EPFO Member Portal using your UAN and password.Go to Manage Modify Basic DetailsEnter the correct details as per Aadhaar.Submit the request.What Happens Next?Your request is sent to your employer for approval.The employer reviews and forwards it to EPFO.EPFO verifies the details and approves/rejects the request
- EPFO PortalVisit the official website of EPFO.Then go to Services.Now select the "For Employees" option. Click on the "Member UAN/Online Service (OCS/OTCP)" icon.In the login page, click "Know Your UAN" under Important Links.Enter your mobile number or Aadhaar and verify with OTP to get your UAN.UMANG AppOpen the app, go to EPFO services, and use UAN-related services with Aadhaar and OTP to access your details.Salary SlipYour UAN is usually mentioned on your monthly salary slip provided by your employer.Contact HR/EmployerYou can ask your HR or employer for your UAN, as they generate it during onboarding.SMS ServiceSend "EPFOHO UAN" to 7738299899 from your registered mobile number to receive your details.
What is UAN KYC?
How to Update UAN Details for Employees?
You can update your basic details (name, DOB, gender) in your UAN through the portal of the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation. The request is verified with Aadhaar and approved by your employer and EPFO.
Multiple PF Accounts Under One UAN
Every employer gives a separate PF account number to the employee, but the UAN number remains the same. All the PF accounts are linked to the same UAN issued by the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation.
It is advisable to transfer your previous PF account to the current one. Ensure your KYC details are updated, and avoid creating multiple UANs. Always ensure your previous employer has updated your exit date to enable a smooth transfer.
How to Check UAN Details
You can check your UAN details using multiple simple methods provided by the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation.
Benefits of UAN for Employees
Here are some of the key benefits of UAN for employees:
- One UAN remains the same even if you change jobs. It links all your PF accounts.
- You can check your PF balance and passbook anytime online.
- You can withdraw, transfer, and update KYC without visiting the office.
- You can track contributions made by your employer and monitor your account activity.
- Easily transfer your PF balance when switching jobs.
FAQs
The UAN full form is Universal Account Number. It is a 12-digit number given by the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation to manage your EPF account.
The UAN meaning is a unique number that links all your PF accounts from different jobs into one place, making it easier to manage your EPF details.
UAN is a unique number that connects all your PF accounts under one ID. It helps you manage your EPF easily online.
You can get your UAN from your employer, salary slip, or by using the “Know Your UAN” option on the portal of the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation.