EPFO: How To Activate Your UAN for the First Time Using UMANG App and Aadhaar Face Authentication

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has overhauled its registration process, completely discontinuing Universal Account Number (UAN) activation and new UAN generation via its traditional online portal. In a move aimed at enhancing platform security and reliability, the retirement fund body has shifted both services exclusively to the government's Umang mobile app, mandating the use of Aadhaar-based Face Authentication (FAT). The sweeping update follows a major database consolidation and software upgrade designed to deliver faster online services for subscribers.

Direct Shift to Mobile-First Authentication

The transition to the Umang app marks a significant departure from the web-portal based systems that EPF subscribers have relied on for years. First-time users must now navigate the setup process using biometric verification on their smartphones. EPFO May Extend PF and Pension Benefits to Self-Employed and Gig Workers Under New Universal Scheme.

According to the retirement fund body, integrating Aadhaar-based Face Authentication minimizes identity fraud risks while establishing a more seamless interface for new entries into the system. The portal service shutdown affects all new employees looking to generate a UAN as well as existing workers activating their accounts for the first time.

Step-by-Step Activation Process

For first-time users, completing the mandatory UAN activation involves utilizing two mobile applications in tandem.

1. Install and Register: Download the Umang application from the official Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Users must register using their Aadhaar-linked mobile number and establish a secure 4-digit M-PIN for future access.

2. Locate UAN Services: Once signed into the app, search for "EPFO" and navigate to the “UAN Services Through Face Auth” section. Select the “UAN activation” option.

3. Submit Credentials: Input the assigned UAN, Aadhaar number, and the registered mobile number, then request a One-Time Password (OTP).

4. Biometric Face Scan: Upon entering the OTP, the app will require the installation of the "Aadhaar Face RD app." Once active, it prompts a face scan via the smartphone camera. A green indicator circle confirms a successful capture.

5. Final Verification: Review the auto-populated demographic details (name, date of birth) pulled from the database and submit. A temporary password will be sent via SMS to complete the activation.

Subscribers can verify successful setup by returning to the "UAN allotment and activation" tab in the Umang app. Re-entering details will prompt a status message confirming that the account is active. EPFO Starts Crediting 8.25% Interest for FY 2025-26; Here's How Members Can Verify Their Balance.

Broad Financial Context: Interest and Benefits

The fundamental restructuring comes alongside key financial updates for the current fiscal period. The Finance Ministry has ratified the EPFO’s recommended 8.25% interest rate for EPF and Voluntary Provident Fund (VPF) contributions, maintaining this rate for the third consecutive term.

Furthermore, current regulations dictate that subscribers must maintain a 25% minimum balance within their accounts at all times, limiting partial, pre-retirement withdrawals to a maximum of 75% of the total accumulated corpus. Under the traditional tax regime, annual employee contributions up to ₹1.5 lakh remain exempt under Section 80C, though parallel benefits are not currently available under the new tax framework.