ELI scheme benefits: Centre pushes EPFO for UAN activation of employees via Aadhaar-based OTP

To ensure the effective rollout of the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme announced in the Union Budget 2024-25, the central government has directed the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) to operate in a campaign mode for the activation of Universal Account Numbers (UAN) for employees.

“The Central Government has already issued directions to Ministries/Departments to ensure payments of Subsidy/Incentive to the beneficiaries of the welfare schemes through Aadhaar Payment Bridge and ensuring 100% Biometric Aadhaar Authentication,” the ministry of labour and employment said in a release.

"To ensure that maximum number of employers and employees benefit from the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme announced in Union Budget 2024-25, the Ministry of Labour & Employment has directed EPFO to work in a campaign mode with Employers and ensure activation of Universal Account Number (UAN) of employees," it added.

The plan has two phases. In the first phase, employers need to activate UANs for all employees hired this financial year by November 30, 2024, starting with their newest hires. After that, they will need to ensure all existing employees also have their UANs activated.

So, what’s in it for employees?

Once activated, a UAN gives employees round-the-clock access to EPFO’s online services. Activated UANs enable employees to access EPFO’s extensive digital services, including managing Provident Fund (PF) accounts, viewing passbooks, submitting claims for withdrawals and advances, and tracking claims in real-time.

Whether it’s checking your PF balance, downloading passbooks, applying for withdrawals or advances, or tracking claims – it’s all available at your fingertips.

The activation process is simple and can be done online:

• Go to the EPFO Member Portal.

• Click on “Activate UAN” under “Important Links.”

• Enter details like your UAN, Aadhaar number, name, date of birth, and Aadhaar-linked mobile number.

• Agree to Aadhaar OTP verification.

• Request an authorisation PIN and enter the OTP sent to your mobile.

• Once activated, you’ll receive a password on your registered mobile number.

In the second phase, the activation process will get a tech upgrade with biometric authentication using facial recognition technology.