UAN Allotment Through Face Authentication via UMANG App: A Game-Changer for Employers

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced a new way to simplify the Universal Account Number (UAN) generation process. Now, employers can help new employees generate their UAN through Face Authentication using the UMANG App. This move makes onboarding quicker, more accurate, and fully digital.

Why UAN Matters

The Universal Account Number (UAN) is a 12-digit unique ID for employees covered under the Employee Provident Fund (EPF) scheme. It links all the Member IDs assigned by different employers over time. Employees use their UAN to check EPF contributions, transfer funds, or withdraw savings.

For employers, UAN is essential to start EPF contributions and meet compliance requirements. Delays or errors in UAN generation can slow down payroll and employee benefits.

The Old Process: Demographic Authentication

Earlier, UAN generation relied on demographic details like name, gender, and date of birth. These details had to match exactly with Aadhaar data. Any mismatch – such as a spelling error or incorrect date – often led to failure.

This process also required manual data entry. As a result, it increased the chance of errors and delayed onboarding.

What’s New: Face Authentication via UMANG App

EPFO now offers a modern alternative. The new system uses face recognition to match the employee’s Aadhaar data directly. This technology allows employers and employees to skip the tedious manual steps.

Key Benefits of the New System

1. Direct Aadhaar Verification

The UMANG App pulls data straight from Aadhaar after successful face authentication. This avoids problems caused by name mismatches or typing errors.

2. One-Step UAN Generation and Activation

Employees no longer need to complete multiple steps. Once face authentication is successful, the UAN is both generated and activated immediately.

3. Greater Accuracy and Fewer Failures

Face authentication verifies identity in real time. It improves the success rate of UAN generation and reduces the need for manual correction.

4. Fully Digital and Contact-Free

The process requires no physical documents or office visits. This is ideal for remote work settings and improves employee convenience.

5. Saves Time for Employers

By using this new method, HR teams can onboard employees faster. They can also avoid repeated data corrections and follow-ups.

What Employers Should Do

EPFO encourages employers to guide new employees through this improved system. The process is simple, but a little support can help employees complete it correctly.

Here’s what employers should focus on:

Inform New Employees

Make sure new joiners know about UAN generation through face authentication. Explain why it’s better and how it helps them activate EPF benefits faster.

Offer Assistance When Needed

Some employees may not be comfortable using mobile apps. A quick demonstration or brief training during orientation can solve that issue.

Encourage Same-Day Completion

Since activation happens instantly, employees should complete the process on the day of joining. This avoids delays in registering for EPF.

Prepare for the Transition

EPFO has announced that this will soon become the primary method of UAN generation. Adopting it early will make the shift easier for your team.

Step-by-Step Guide for Employees: UAN Allotment Through Face Authentication via UMANG App

Employers can share these simple instructions with employees:

1. Download the UMANG App from the Play Store or App Store.

2. Open the app and find the EPFO Services section.

3. Select UAN Allotment through Face Authentication.

4. Enter your Aadhaar number.

5. Follow the instructions to scan your face using your phone’s camera.

6. Once verified, your UAN is automatically generated and activated.

There’s no need for paperwork or additional approvals.

Where to Find Support

Employees or employers who need help can reach out through multiple channels:

• Visit the nearest EPFO office

• Use the Helpdesk inside the UMANG App

• Call the EPFO Toll-Free Helpline at 14470

Final Thoughts

The introduction of Face Authentication for UAN generation marks a significant improvement in employee onboarding. It saves time, improves accuracy, and fits perfectly with modern, digital work environments.

Employers who adopt this method now will enjoy faster processing, fewer errors, and better compliance. More importantly, they’ll provide a smoother experience for their new hires.

Start using Face Authentication on the UMANG App today to streamline your HR process and support a fully digital future.