How to Get UAN Online: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Universal Account Number (UAN) provides employees with a single way to manage a PF account. This unique number keeps all the information of the Employee Provident Fund (EPF) and makes it easy to access. Employees use UAN to change jobs, transfer PF, check their balance, and more.  Many employees remain confused about how to get their UAN online. The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) now offers a fully digital process for UAN number online verification using Aadhaar, PAN, or PF Member ID. In this blog, you will learn how to get UAN number online.

What is a UAN Number?

The Universal Account Number (UAN) refers to a unique 12-digit identification number issued by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). This number is given to every employee who contributes to the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF). It works as a permanent identity. This number does not change even if an employee switches jobs. Every new PF account created with a different employer gets linked to the same UAN. Employees can also connect Aadhaar, PAN, and bank details with their UAN for quick verification, easy transfers, and smooth online services.

Importance of UAN for Employees

Listed below are the Key importance of the Universal Account Number (UAN) for Employees:

• One Number for Life

The Universal Account Number (UAN) serves as a permanent identity for every employee’s PF account. This number remains the same for a person’s life after the issuance, even if they change their jobs several times. Thus, the UAN number connects all PF accounts to a single number.  This helps to make PF management simple, clear, and stress-free for employees in the long run.

• Seamless PF Transfers

Earlier, employees were suffering from delays in paperwork during the transfer of their PF balance from one employee to another. UAN helps to make the PF transfer fast and smooth through the EPFO (Employees' Provident Fund Organisation) online portal. Employees can transfer their PF balance online after UAN activation and linked KYC. The new employer’s PF account links directly with the same UAN, which makes the whole process simple and hassle-free.

• Easy Online Access

Employees can use UAN to check the PF details through the EPFO Member Portal or the UMANG mobile app. They can easily check their PF balance, download their passbook, and view monthly contributions with a few clicks. This easy access helps employees to stay updated about their savings at all times without visiting any office. It also helps to promote financial awareness and better planning for the future.

• Quick Withdrawals and Claims

Aadhaar, PAN, and bank account linked with UAN help employees to get fast withdrawals and claims. The system automatically verifies the employee’s details once linked and avoids employer approval in many cases. This helps employees receive their PF settlement, pension claim, partial withdrawal, etc. It brings greater independence and reduces unnecessary delays in getting their savings.

• Transparency in Contributions

Employees can regularly monitor their PF contributions with UAN. Both employer and employee deposits are shown clearly in the account each month. It allows employees to log in to their EPFO account and verify whether their contributions are added properly. This level of transparency builds trust and confirms that discrepancies or delays are noticed. It supports employees in filing timely complaints against errors.

• Mandatory for EPF Services

Employees must use UAN for almost all EPF services. UAN number activation online is required for online KYC updates, checking e-passbooks, adding a nominee, and filing claims. UAN allows employees to access these services on the EPFO portal. UAN is required for employees to manage their PF accounts online efficiently and securely.

How to Get UAN Number Online?

Below is the step-by-step process on how to get a UAN number online:

• Step 1: Visit the Official EPFO Portal

Firstly, as an employee, you must visit the official EPFO Member e-Sewa portal to access your Universal Account Number (UAN). The official portal ensures safe PF transactions and prevents fraud.

• Step 2: Select the “Know Your UAN” Option

Next, you need to select the “Know Your UAN” link under the Important Links section or check your UAN number online from the homepage. Then, click this link to open the page and enter your required details to retrieve this number.  You can use this option to generate or find your UAN quickly.

• Step 3: Provide Your Basic Information

In this step, you need to provide your personal details, such as Aadhaar, PAN, or Member ID, to search for your UAN. You must also enter your full name, date of birth, and registered mobile number as per EPFO records. The UAN appears only when your entered details match the official records.

• Step 4: Complete OTP Verification

You will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number after submitting the details to the number to complete UAN number online verification. Next, enter this OTP number correctly on the portal to confirm your identity.  This step helps to secure your account and ensures that only the rightful owner can access the UAN details.

• Step 5: Get Your UAN Number

The portal will show your Universal Account Number (UAN) on the screen when your OTP is verified.  You can also receive this number to your registered email ID and mobile number. You can keep this OTP for future use. This UAN helps to activate your account, check your PF balance, transfer funds, or submit withdrawal requests without depending on your employer.

Documents Required to Get a UAN Number Online

Listed below are the documents required to get a UAN number online:

• Aadhaar Card for identity, address, and EPF linking.
• PAN Card for identity and tax purposes.
• Bank Account Details for PF transactions.
• Identity Proof such as Voter ID, Passport, or Driving Licence (if needed).
• Address Proof including Utility bill, Passport, or Ration Card (if Aadhaar mismatch).
• Employment Details such as joining date, employee code, and employer details.

How to Activate UAN Online?

Here are the steps to activate UAN online:

• Step 1: Visit the UAN Portal

You must first visit the official EPFO UAN Member e-Sewa Portal to activate the Universal Account Number (UAN). Next, you need to click on the “Activate UAN” option in the Important Links section on the homepage. This section helps to allow employees to activate their UAN for the first time.

• Step 2: Enter Your Details

Next, you need to click on the “Activate UAN” option, and a form appears to fill in your required details. Select UAN or PF Member ID as your preferred option. Then, you need to provide your Aadhaar number, full name, date of birth, registered mobile number, and provided captcha code as per EPFO records. Once you have completed the form, you need to mark the consent box to confirm and click on the “Get Authorisation PIN” option.

• Step 3: Verify Your Details

A new page opens and shows the details which is linked to your UAN or PF account. You must always review this information carefully for authenticity. If the information is correct, you can proceed with the next step. If there is any errors are found, you can contact your employer or the EPFO helpdesk to resolve the error.

• Step 4: Authenticate with OTP

Confirm your details and click the “I Agree” box to proceed. Then, you will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on your registered mobile number. Next, you need to enter your received OTP in the provided field. Then, click on the “Validate OTP and Activate UAN” option to activate the UAN.

• Step 5: UAN Activation Completed

Once your entered OTP is verified, your Universal Account Number (UAN) becomes activated instantly. Then, you will receive a login password to your registered mobile number. You can use this password with your UAN to log in to the EPFO portal. Once logged in, you can access all EPF-related services. EPF services can include checking balance, filing claims, downloading passbooks, and updating KYC details.

How to Retrieve UAN if Forgotten?

Listed below are the effective methods to retrieve UAN:

Method 1: EPFO Member Portal — “Know Your UAN”

• You need to open the EPFO Member e-Sewa portal.
• Then, you need to select the “Know Your UAN” option under Important Links.
• Enter Aadhaar or PAN or PF Member ID, then your name, date of birth, mobile number, and the captcha code.
• Tap Get OTP, then enter the OTP.
• The screen shows your UAN. You also get it on your mobile or email.

Method 2: UMANG App (face auth + instant result)

• You can install the UMANG app and Aadhaar Face RD from your app store.
• Then, open UMANG → EPFO → UAN Allotment and Activation or Know Your UAN.
• Enter Aadhaar and the mobile number that matches Aadhaar, give consent, then tap Send OTP and enter it.
• Hold your phone so your face fits the frame; wait till the frame turns green.
• If a UAN already exists, the app shows it. If no UAN exists, the app creates one and also activates it; you can download the e-UAN card.

Method 3: Salary Slip

• You can open your monthly pay slip.
• Next, you need to search for a line that states UAN near PF details.
• Note the 12-digit number and save it for future use.

(Most employers print UAN on the salary slip.)

Method 4: Ask Your Employer/HR

• Reach your HR team or payroll desk.
• Share your name, Aadhaar, and PF Member ID for a match.
• HR checks the employer portal and tells you the UAN linked to your record.
• Request the e-UAN card for your files.

Method 5: EPFO Helpdesk or Grievance Portal

• Call the EPFO toll-free help number 14470 for quick support.
• You can also open the EPFiGMS portal, choose PF Member, enter your details, and submit your request.
• You get a ticket number and a reply on your phone or email

Conclusion

The Universal Account Number represents more than just a number. It is considered a permanent key to managing provident fund savings throughout an employee’s career. Employees can use the EPFO portal and the UMANG app to access, activate (UAN number activation online), or retrieve a UAN quickly and simply. A valid UAN helps to make every PF service simple. Employees can transfer funds, apply for withdrawals, or check their PF balance. Keeping the UAN active gives employees control, security, and complete transparency over their PF accounts. If you want to get an ESIC or PF registration, contact Online Legal India to get assistance.

FAQ

Q1. How can I get my UAN number online in 2025?

Employees can get their UAN online through the EPFO Member e-Sewa portal or the UMANG app. Enter Aadhaar, PAN, or PF Member ID, verify with OTP, and the UAN is shown on the screen and also sent to your mobile number.

Q2. Is it mandatory to activate UAN through the UMANG app in 2025?

Yes. From August 1, 2025, EPFO has made it compulsory to generate and activate UAN using the UMANG app with Face Authentication Technology (FAT) for better security and instant activation.

Q3. What documents are required to activate UAN online?

To activate UAN, you need your Aadhaar number linked with your mobile, PAN card, PF Member ID, and bank details. These help verify your identity and ensure smooth linking with your EPF account.

Q4. How do I retrieve my UAN if I forget it?

You can retrieve your UAN through the EPFO portal or UMANG app using your Aadhaar details. The number is also often available on salary slips, or you can ask your employer or contact the EPFO helpdesk for support.

Q5. Why is UAN important for employees in 2025?

UAN links all PF accounts under one ID, making transfers, withdrawals, and balance checks simple. It also ensures transparency in monthly contributions and allows quick online access to all EPF services.