The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has made significant strides in digitising its services, allowing members to manage their provident fund (PF) accounts conveniently online. Keeping personal details like mobile numbers and KYC updated on the EPFO portal ensures seamless access to your account and smooth processing of withdrawals, transfers, or claims. This article offers a step-by-step guide on updating contact information and KYC details while also explaining PF balance how to check easily.
Why is updating mobile number and KYC important?
Your mobile number and KYC (Know Your Customer) details are directly linked to your Universal Account Number (UAN), which serves as your unique identifier across different employers. If these details are outdated or incorrect, you may face:
- Difficulty logging into your EPFO account.
- Delays in receiving OTPs for claim verification.
- Hurdles in processing withdrawal, transfer, or grievance requests.
- Complications in employer verification.
Keeping these details current ensures uninterrupted access to all EPFO online services.
KYC details maintained by EPFO
The EPFO collects the following KYC information to verify member identity:
- Aadhaar number
- PAN
- Bank account details (for direct claim settlements)
- Passport (for international employment)
- Driving licence
- Voter ID
- Ration card (optional)
These documents help verify the identity of the employee and prevent fraudulent withdrawals or claims.
PF balance how to check
Before updating any details, you may want to check your current PF balance. You can do this through multiple channels:
1. EPFO Member e-Sewa Portal
- Login with UAN and password.
- Go to ‘View Passbook’.
- Select Member ID to view PF balance.
2. EPFO Mobile App (UMANG App)
- Register using your mobile number linked to UAN.
- Access ‘EPFO Services’ > ‘View Passbook’.
3. SMS Service
- Send SMS in this format: EPFOHO UAN ENG to 7738299899.
4. Missed Call Service
- Give a missed call to 9966044425 from your registered mobile number.
These options offer instant access to your balance without requiring employer assistance.
How to update mobile number on EPFO portal
If you’ve changed your mobile number, follow these steps to update it online:
Scenario 1: You know your current UAN login credentials
- Login to the EPFO Member e-Sewa portal.
- Click on ‘Manage’ > ‘Contact Details’.
- Select ‘Change Mobile Number’.
- Enter new mobile number and verify via OTP.
- Submit and confirm the change.
Scenario 2: You forgot UAN login password
- Visit the login page and click on ‘Forgot Password’.
- Provide UAN and current registered mobile number.
- Verify via OTP and reset your password.
- Once logged in, follow the above steps to update your mobile number.
Offline alternative
If your mobile number is no longer active, you may approach your employer or EPFO regional office for assistance.
How to update KYC details on EPFO portal
Step 1: Login to Member e-Sewa portal
- Use your UAN, password, and captcha verification.
Step 2: Navigate to KYC update section
- Go to ‘Manage’ > ‘KYC’.
Step 3: Add or update KYC documents
- Select applicable documents (Aadhaar, PAN, bank details, etc.)
- Enter required information.
- Upload scanned documents if prompted.
Step 4: Submit request
- Your KYC update will be marked as ‘Pending for Employer Approval’.
- Your employer needs to verify and approve submitted KYC details.
- Post employer verification, EPFO will authenticate the details with respective issuing authorities.
Typical processing time for KYC updates
- Employer approval: Within a few working days.
- EPFO verification: Generally completed within 15–30 days, depending on document validation.
You can check the status of your KYC update on the same portal under ‘KYC Pending Approval’ section.
KYC update benefits
- Faster claim settlements.
- Hassle-free online withdrawals and transfers.
- Instant grievance redressal processing.
- Better transparency and error-free account management.
An updated KYC ensures that your PF balance check, transfers, and claim approvals happen without delays or system rejections.
What happens if KYC is not updated?
- You may face rejections in online withdrawal requests.
- UAN linking issues may occur when changing jobs.
- Claims may take longer to process.
- Some EPFO services may remain inaccessible.
Hence, keeping KYC updated is not only advisable but practically necessary for efficient account management.
Calculation example: how updated PF records help long-term wealth creation
Assume:
- Basic salary: Rs. 40,000 per month.
- Employee contribution (12%): Rs. 4,800.
- Employer contribution to EPF (3.67%): Rs. 1,468.
- Total monthly credit: Rs. 6,268.
- Annual interest rate: 8.15% p.a.
After 15 years:
- Total contributions: Rs. 6,268 × 12 × 15 = Rs. 11,28,240.
- Approximate interest earned: Rs. 7,50,000.
- Total PF balance: Rs. 18,78,240.
Regular KYC updates ensure these accumulated savings are easily accessible when needed, without procedural delays.
Safety of your EPFO records
- Fully government-regulated platform.
- Aadhaar-based verification ensures identity security.
- Mobile number linkage enables OTP-based logins and authorisations.
- Regular system upgrades have improved digital security.
However, members should avoid sharing login credentials and periodically monitor their accounts for any discrepancies.
Summary
Keeping your EPFO profile updated by regularly revising your mobile number and KYC ensures uninterrupted access to your provident fund account. Through simple steps on the EPFO Member e-Sewa portal, members can update contact details, perform PF balance how to check, and manage KYC submissions digitally. For example, with consistent contributions of Rs. 6,268 monthly, one may accumulate approximately Rs. 18,78,240 in 15 years. Timely updates prevent login issues, streamline claim processing, and offer smooth long-term financial management for retirement savings.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. Individuals must carefully assess all advantages, disadvantages and risks before participating or investing in the Indian financial market.
