Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) has issued a strong advisory urging its members to avoid unauthorized agents and instead utilize official EPFO portals for secure and free online services.
Recent reports reveal that cybercafés and fintech operators are charging members unnecessary fees for EPFO services.
These services, however, are officially available for free through EPFO’s designated online portals.
Ministry of Labour and Employment highlighted EPFO’s commitment to making its services faster, transparent, and user-friendly through several reforms.
These improvements ensure that members can directly access their provident fund accounts, claims, and grievance redressal mechanisms without relying on third-party agents.
EPFO Digital Transformation and Service Enhancements
EPFO has introduced multiple digital reforms to streamline its services, including:
- Auto Settlement of Advance Claims: Members can now avail up to ₹1 lakh for advances related to illness, housing, marriage, and education, with claims processed automatically.
- Simplified Transfer Claims: Since January 15, 2025, employer approvals are no longer required for most transfer claims, reducing processing time.
- KYC and Profile Corrections: Aadhaar-based authentication has simplified profile corrections, eliminating dependency on employers.
- Online De-Linking of Member IDs: Members can now remove wrongly tagged Member IDs from their Universal Account Number (UAN), reducing grievances.
- Face Authentication Technology (FAT) via UMANG App: This feature enables instant UAN allotment and activation, granting immediate access to EPFO services.
Additionally, EPFO has removed the requirement for uploading scanned cheque leaves or attested bank passbook images, expediting claim settlements.
From April 2025, bank account linking with UAN no longer requires employer approval, further simplifying the process.
Concerns Over Unauthorized Agents and Cybercafés
EPFO has noted a growing trend where cybercafés and fintech operators charge members excessive fees for its services.
These services, however, remain officially free when accessed through EPFO’s designated online portals.
These agents often submit claims or grievances on behalf of members using EPFO’s public portals, sometimes compromising financial security and data privacy.
EPFO stated that third-party entities are not authorized to offer its services.
It also warned members to avoid sharing sensitive personal or financial information with such operators.
Robust Grievance Redressal System
EPFO operates a strong grievance redress mechanism through EPFiGMS and CPGRAMS portals.
In FY 2024–25, EPFiGMS received a total of 16 lakh grievances from EPFO members.
Additionally, 1.74 lakh grievances were registered through CPGRAMS, highlighting the scale of concerns addressed.
Impressively, 98% of grievances were resolved within the stipulated timelines, reinforcing EPFO’s commitment to efficient service delivery.
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