The Universal Account Number (UAN) is a unique 12-digit identification number issued by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) to every employee contributing to the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF). It acts as an umbrella ID that links multiple Member IDs (PF account numbers) assigned by different employers throughout your career.
The main purpose of UAN is to simplify the management of EPF accounts and provide employees with easy access to their provident fund details online. Once generated, the UAN remains the same even if you switch jobs.
What is UAN Number?
UAN stands for Universal Account Number. It is a permanent number allotted to salaried employees who contribute to EPF. Whenever you change jobs, your new employer creates a new PF Member ID, but it gets linked to your existing UAN.
This system ensures that all your PF accounts are connected under one number, making it easy to track contributions, transfers, and withdrawals.

Why is UAN Important?
The introduction of UAN has made EPF services more transparent and user-friendly. Here are some key benefits:
- Easy PF Account Management – With UAN, you can manage all your EPF accounts under one login.
- Online Access – Using the EPFO unified member portal, you can log in with your UAN and password to:
- Check PF balance
- Download passbook
- Update KYC details
- Transfer PF account
- Submit withdrawal claims
- Transparency – Employees receive SMS alerts for monthly PF contributions made by employers.
- Faster Claim Processing – If your KYC is verified, you can submit online claims without employer attestation in many cases.
How to Activate UAN Number?
Before using online services, you must activate your UAN.
Steps to Activate UAN Number:
- Visit the EPFO Member e-Sewa Portal.
- Click on “Activate UAN.”
- Enter your UAN, Member ID, Aadhaar, or PAN.
- Fill in your name, date of birth, mobile number, and captcha.
- Click on “Get Authorization PIN.”
- Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile.
- Create your password.
After activation, you can log in anytime using your UAN and password.
How to Get Your UAN?
Usually, your employer generates your UAN when you join your first job. You can find your UAN:
- On your salary slip
- Through your employer’s HR department
- Via EPFO Member Portal
Steps to Know Your UAN Online
- Visit the EPFO Unified Member Portal.
- Click on “Know Your UAN.”
- Enter your registered mobile number and captcha.
- Click on “Request OTP.”
- Enter the OTP received on your mobile.
- Provide your name, DOB, and Aadhaar/PAN/Member ID.
- Click on “Show My UAN.”
How to Link Aadhaar with UAN?
Linking Aadhaar with UAN is mandatory for seamless services.
Steps to Link Aadhaar:
- Log in to the UAN portal.
- Go to “Manage” section.
- Click on “KYC.”
- Select Aadhaar and enter your Aadhaar number.
- Save and submit.
Once approved by your employer, Aadhaar gets linked successfully.
How to Download UAN Passbook?
- Visit the EPFO passbook portal.
- Log in using your UAN and password.
- Select the Member ID.
- Click on “Download Passbook.”
You can download it in PDF format for future reference.
What to Do If You Forget UAN Password?
If you forget your password:
- Visit the EPFO Member Portal.
- Click on “Forgot Password.”
- Enter your UAN and captcha.
- Verify with OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
- Create a new password.
Make sure your mobile number is updated in EPFO records.
Frequently Asked Questions of UAN Activation Portal
Is UAN mandatory for EPF withdrawal?
Yes, activating UAN and completing KYC is necessary for online withdrawal.
Can I have two UAN numbers?
No, you should have only one UAN throughout your career.
Is UAN free of cost?
Yes, UAN is generated free by EPFO.