New feature on Member e-Sewa portal empowers EPF members for seamless KYC updates
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced a new feature on its Member e-Sewa portal, enabling EPF members to perform KYC (Know Your Customer) updates online. This initiative aims to empower EPF members to rectify their details within their EPF accounts and complete the KYC process seamlessly through digital means. Termed as the “joint declaration” facility, it is distinct from the mandatory joint declaration form required under Para 26(6) of the EPF scheme, which allows for increased EPF contributions if the basic salary exceeds the statutory limit (currently Rs15,000 per month).
The “joint declaration” feature serves as a convenient avenue for members to update their KYC details online, eliminating the need for traditional offline methods. This development assumes significance as it enables EPF account holders to verify and modify their personal information on the EPFO portal, thereby preventing rejection of withdrawal requests due to record mismatches. Recent reports have highlighted instances where EPFO rejected withdrawal requests due to discrepancies in PAN, Aadhaar, and EPFO records. The new online facility facilitates the rectification of such errors from the comfort of one’s home.
The EPFO, through a circular dated August 23, 2023, outlined the standard operating procedure for processing joint declarations aimed at member profile updates. This joint declaration signifies an authenticated request by employees, validated by their employers, for modifying or adding essential profile parameters. The EPFO has recently activated this feature on its Member e-Sewa Portal, allowing EPF members to seamlessly submit corrections to their EPF accounts online. Previously, only limited corrections were feasible online, while other changes required physical submission of forms attested by employers to the EPFO.
It is crucial to note that a significant number of rejected EPF claims stem from information mismatches in official documents such as PAN, Aadhaar, and EPFO records. Therefore, ensuring accurate and updated records in the EPFO database is imperative for a successful EPF claim.
Before initiating the online KYC update process, EPF members should be aware of certain prerequisites and have specific documents readily available. Notably, there are limitations on the number of times certain details can be edited in EPFO records, such as name, gender, and marital status. Additionally, the EPFO permits updates to eleven personal details and six service details.
To initiate KYC updates online, EPF members can follow these steps:
- Visit the Member e-Sewa portal and log in using your UAN, password, and captcha code.
- Upon logging in, select the “Manage” option and then choose “Joint Declaration” to proceed with updating personal and service details.
- Verify and make necessary corrections to your EPF account details, ensuring alignment with EPFO records.
- Provide consent for using Aadhaar to establish identity for the joint declaration, upload required documents based on the changes made, and submit the request.
- Await approval from your employer, who will verify the updated information before forwarding the request to the EPFO office.
- Once approved by the EPFO, the changes will reflect on the EPFO portal, typically within 20-25 days from submission.
The introduction of the online KYC update facility by the EPFO underscores its commitment to enhancing member convenience and streamlining administrative processes. This digital initiative not only facilitates smoother operations but also contributes to minimizing discrepancies and ensuring efficient EPF account management for members nationwide.
