EPFO Extends UAN Activation Deadline for ELI Scheme to February 15, 2025

The EPFO (Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation) has extended the deadline for activating the Universal Account Number (UAN) and linking bank accounts with Aadhaar to February 15, 2025. This extension allows employees more time to fulfil the mandatory requirements for availing benefits under the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Labour and Employment in a circular issued on February 2, 2025.

What is UAN, and Why is it Important?

The Universal Account Number (UAN) is a 12-digit unique ID assigned to EPFO members. It helps employees manage their provident fund (PF) accounts, check balances, track transactions, and withdraw funds easily.

Activating UAN gives employees access to EPFO’s online services, such as:

• Checking and downloading PF passbooks
• Submitting online claims for withdrawals, advances, or transfers
• Updating personal details
• Monitoring the status of PF claims

Understanding the ELI Scheme

The Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme aims to boost formal employment and ensure that benefits are transferred directly to employees’ Aadhaar-linked bank accounts.

In the Union Budget 2024, FM, Nirmala Sitharaman introduced 3 types of ELI schemes (A, B, and C). Employees must activate their UAN and link Aadhaar by November 30, 2024, to be eligible for benefits.

Why Linking Aadhaar and Bank Account is Important

EPFO has emphasised the need to link Aadhaar and bank accounts to enable smooth disbursement of benefits under the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme. This ensures that incentives and PF benefits are credited directly to the beneficiary’s bank account without delays.

Steps to Activate UAN Online

To activate UAN and link Aadhaar before the deadline, follow these steps:

1. Visit the EPFO Member Sewa portal
2. Click on ‘Activate UAN’ under the ‘Important Links’ section
3. Enter your UAN, Aadhaar number, date of birth, and mobile number
4. Verify your details using OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number
5. After successful verification, your UAN activation will be completed

Final Reminder

Employees must complete their UAN activation and Aadhaar linking before February 15, 2025, to avoid issues with EPF withdrawals and ELI Scheme benefits. Delays in updating these details could result in difficulties accessing funds and other employment-related incentives.

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