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EPFO now uses Aadhaar-based Face Authentication for UAN generation and activation via the UMANG app, reducing errors, eliminating employer involvement, and offering instant access.
EPFO introduces Aadhaar-based face authentication for UAN generation and activation
Aadhaar-based Face Authentication Technology (FAT) is becoming popular among institutions for its added security. Now, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has adopted this technology to make things easier for employees.
EPFO has launched a digital feature that lets employees generate and activate their Universal Account Number (UAN) using face authentication. This is expected to reduce errors and improve the overall experience.
Earlier, UANs were mostly created by employers. But this often led to mistakes in personal details like the father’s name or mobile number. Sometimes, employers didn’t even share the UAN with employees, causing delays in activation and making it hard for people to access EPFO services.
In FY 2024-25, EPFO issued over 1.26 crore UANs, but only 35% got activated. The extra step of using Aadhaar OTP for activation often caused confusion.
Face Authentication Via UMANG App
Now, employees can directly generate and activate their UAN using the UMANG app and AadhaarFaceRD app.
Here’s How It Works:
Download the UMANG and AadhaarFaceRD apps from the Play Store.
Open UMANG and go to “UAN Allotment and Activation” under UAN services.
Enter your Aadhaar number and the mobile number linked to Aadhaar.
Give your consent and validate the OTP.
Capture a live photo using your phone’s camera.
Once your face is verified with Aadhaar records, your UAN is generated and sent via SMS.
The UAN gets activated automatically, and you can instantly download the e-UAN card.
Benefits Of The New System:
100% identity check using Aadhaar-based face match.
No need for employer involvement.
UAN and mobile number are auto-verified.
Instant access to EPFO services like passbook, KYC update, and claim submission.
Reduces onboarding errors and delays.
For Existing Users Too
If you already have a UAN but haven’t activated it yet, you can now do it easily through face authentication on the UMANG app.
Coming Soon For Pensioners
EPFO will also expand face authentication to help pensioners submit their digital life certificate (DLC). In partnership with My Bharat, young volunteers will visit pensioners and help them complete this process through Jeevan Pramaan, right at their doorstep.
