EPFO Direct UAN Generation by Employees: Quick Guide 

Introduction 

The Universal Account Number (UAN) helps employees manage their Provident Fund accounts. Under the updated EPFO process, UAN Generation is no longer done by employers; instead, employees themselves must generate and activate their UAN directly through the UMANG app using Aadhaar-based face authentication. This allows employees to create UAN number, create UAN account, and activate EPF UAN instantly to access PF benefits without delays.

Understanding UAN and Its Role 

The UAN is a 12-digit number issued by EPFO to every employee enrolled in the Provident Fund scheme. It acts as a single identity for all PF accounts, making it easier to track contributions and withdrawals.

With UAN, employees can create UAN account for online access, check balances, and link multiple PF accounts under one ID. Whether you are joining a new job or shifting employers, having a valid UAN number ensures smooth management of your PF benefits.

Mandatory UAN Generation by Employees 

Earlier, employers were responsible for initiating UAN Generation at the time of joining. However, under the updated EPFO process, employees themselves must now generate their UAN directly using Aadhaar and complete face authentication on the UMANG app. This shift ensures transparency, reduces dependency on employers, and standardizes the process across organizations.

Once the UAN is generated, it is also activated immediately in the same process, allowing employees to create login credentials and access PF services without waiting. The employer’s role is now limited to linking the UAN with the employee’s PF account after it has been generated. This makes employee-led UAN generation mandatory, not optional, for all new members entering the Provident Fund system.

Step-by-Step Process of UAN Generation by Employees   

From August 2025, EPFO has made it mandatory for employees to generate and activate their UAN themselves. The process no longer happens on the old EPFO portal—it is now done through the UMANG mobile app using Aadhaar-based Face Authentication. Here’s how you can do it step by step:

1. Install the apps: Download the UMANG App on your phone. Along with that, install the Aadhaar Face RD App which will be used for face authentication.
2. Open UAN services in UMANG: Launch the UMANG app and go to the EPFO section. Under this, select UAN Allotment and Activation. This option is for both generating a new UAN and activating it instantly.
3. Enter Aadhaar and mobile details: Type in your 12-digit Aadhaar number and the mobile number linked with Aadhaar. Tick the consent box to allow Aadhaar verification.
4. Verify with OTP: Click on “Send OTP.” You’ll get a one-time password on your Aadhaar-linked mobile. Enter the OTP to move ahead.
5. Complete face authentication: Next, UMANG will prompt you to open the Aadhaar Face RD app. Simply follow the instructions on the screen to scan your face. This live face authentication step is now mandatory for UAN generation.
6. Get your UAN instantly: Once your Aadhaar and face scan are verified, your UAN is generated immediately and activated on the spot. You will receive it through SMS on your mobile number.
7. Start using EPFO services right away: With your UAN generated and activated, you can log in through UMANG to check your PF passbook, update KYC, download your e-UAN card, and even file claims.

Conclusion 

With the new EPFO rules, UAN Generation is now a mandatory step handled directly by employees through the UMANG app using Aadhaar-based face authentication. By completing this process, you not only create and activate your UAN instantly but also gain immediate access to PF services, making your Provident Fund management simpler and more transparent.

Frequently Asked Questions on UAN Generation