Overview: The Universal Account Number (UAN) gives employees access to their Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) account through the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) Member Portal. If you forget your password, you can reset it online after completing the required verification. This guide explains the reset process, password requirements, common login problems and ways to keep your account secure.
Forgetting your Universal Account Number (UAN) password can prevent you from accessing your Employees Provident Fund (EPF) account and using important online services. However, you do not need to create a new UAN simply because you don’t remember your password. You can usually regain access through the online password reset facility by verifying your details and setting a new password. Understanding the process can help you avoid common errors and restore access smoothly.
What Is a UAN?
The Universal Account Number (UAN) is a unique number allotted under the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) system. It links the Member IDs associated with an employee’s different employments.
When you change jobs, your new employer may create a new Member ID linked to your existing UAN. This allows you to access your EPF membership details through a single number.
Your UAN and password let you sign in to the EPFO Member Portal and use the services available to your account.
What Is the UAN Password Format?
Your new password must meet the requirements displayed on the EPFO portal. EPFO’s published guidance has specified an alphanumeric password with at least one special character and a length of 8 to 25 characters. Follow the current portal instructions if its requirements differ.
Special characters listed in EPFO’s published guidance include ! @ # $ % ^ & * ( ).
Choose a strong, unique password. Avoid predictable combinations or personal details such as your name and date of birth.
What Do You Need Before Resetting Your UAN Password?
Keep the following details ready:
- UAN: Your correct Universal Account Number.
- Registered mobile number: You may need it to receive the one-time password (OTP).
- Personal details: Your name, date of birth and gender may be required for verification.
- Aadhaar or PAN details: These may be needed if you no longer have access to your registered mobile number.
The exact verification steps depend on your circumstances and the options available on the portal.
How to Reset Your UAN Password Online
Use the official EPFO Member Portal to reset your password.
Step 1: Open the portal
Visit the EPFO Member Portal and click Forgot Password below the login section.
Step 2: Enter your UAN
Enter your UAN and the captcha displayed on the screen. Submit the details to continue.
Step 3: Verify your registered mobile number
Follow the on-screen instructions to receive and enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
Step 4: Verify your identity, if required
If you no longer have access to your registered number, select the alternative mobile-number option if available. Enter the personal and identification details requested by the portal.
Step 5: Create a new password
Enter your new password, confirm it and submit the request. Wait for the confirmation message before attempting to log in again.
Once the reset is successful, sign in using your UAN and new password.
How to Change Your UAN Password After Logging In
If you remember your existing password, follow these steps:
- Open the EPFO Member Portal and log in.
- Check the account or profile settings for a password change option.
- Enter your current password and the new password as instructed.
- Confirm the new password and submit the request.
If the option is unavailable, use the Forgot Password facility.
Why Is Your UAN Password Important?
Your UAN login gives you access to several EPF-related services, subject to eligibility and applicable requirements.
| Service | Purpose |
|---|---|
| EPF passbook | View contribution and account details |
| Online claims | Submit eligible withdrawal or advance claims |
| PF transfer | Apply to transfer eligible PF accumulations |
| Service history | Review employment details |
| KYC information | Check relevant identity and bank details |
| Claim tracking | Check the status of submitted claims |
| Keeping your password secure helps protect your personal and financial information. | |
Common UAN Password Reset Problems and Solutions
1. UAN not recognised: Check that you entered the correct number. If you cannot remember your UAN, use the Know Your UAN facility on the EPFO Member Portal.
2. Registered mobile number has changed: Select the alternative verification option if it is available. EPFO may ask you to verify your name, date of birth, gender and Aadhaar or PAN details before allowing you to use another mobile number.
3. Personal details do not match: Compare your details with your EPFO records and supporting documents. If a correction is needed, follow the prescribed EPFO process for updating member details.
4. OTP not received: Check your network coverage and confirm that you are using the correct registered number. Wait briefly before requesting another OTP. If the issue persists, contact EPFO through its official website.
5. New password rejected: Check the password requirements displayed on the portal. Ensure that your password meets the specified length and character rules before submitting it again.
Tips to Keep Your UAN Password Secure
- Use a strong password: Choose a unique combination that is difficult to guess.
- Avoid password reuse: Do not use the same password across multiple accounts.
- Use a password manager: Store your credentials securely rather than keeping them in plain-text files.
- Never share your password or OTP: Do not disclose these details to callers or people claiming to represent EPFO.
- Avoid suspicious links: Access the portal through the official EPFO website.
EPFO cautions members against sharing sensitive information or making payments in response to suspicious calls. You can also use its official passbook portal to access passbook services.
FAQs
Visit the EPFO Member Portal, click Forgot Password, enter your UAN and captcha, complete the required verification and create a new password.
Yes, if the portal provides a password change option after login. Otherwise, use the Forgot Password facility.
An alternative verification option may be available. You may need to verify your personal and identification details before using another number.
The process can often be completed within a few minutes, provided OTP verification and identity checks are successful.
No. The online password reset facility is free. Be cautious of anyone demanding payment to reset your password.
Check the number you entered or use the Know Your UAN facility on the official Member Portal.
Try signing in after the portal confirms that the reset is successful. If access fails, check your credentials and follow the portal’s instructions.
Check your details and follow the available verification options. If the problem continues, contact EPFO through its official website.
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