EPFO: Account blocked, unable to access passbook, KYC pending? Here’s a look at the common issues and how to fix them
The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) is a government-backed investment and retirement savings option in India. Salaried individuals are eligible to open an EPF account when basic pay and dearness allowance are up to ₹15,000. You can further opt for voluntary provident fund (VPF), if the basic pay and DA exceed ₹15,000 per month.
For FY26, the Centre ratified the EPFO’s suggestion of 8.25% interest rate for both EPF and VPF and interest credits were completed earlier this month on 15 July, PTI reported. This marked the third consecutive time the instrument delivered 8.25% returns on provident fund.
Today, we look at what members can do using the portal or Umang mobile app if they find their provident fund account blocked, can’t remember the UAN password, are unable to access their passbook or have KYC pending or rejected.
- If your claim for provident fund withdrawal or transfer is delayed this is most likely due to employer or service record issues. To fix this, first check the claim status and contact the employer for pending verification.
EPFO members can use Umang app services
Notably, the EPFO has discontinued Universal Account Number (UAN) activation and new UAN generation through the portal and shifted both services to the Umang app with Aadhaar-based Face Authentication (FAT) requirement.
- Download the Umang app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Register on the app with your Aadhaar-linked mobile number and set a 4-digit M-PIN (remember this for future login).
- Once you are logged in, search ‘EPFO’ and open Employee Centric Services and enter you UAN. You will have to complete OTP verification.
The Umang app allows you to access PF balance, your EPF account passbook, track claim status, make KYC updates, complete UAN activation, submit grievances, find the nearest EPFO office, and find your establishment by name or code number.
