EN
You can merge two UANs by transferring your Employee Provident Fund (EPF) balance to your latest UAN through the EPFO portal. The system automatically identifies duplicate UANs and deactivates the old one after verification. Multiple UANs are usually generated when employees change jobs without linking their previous EPF account.
Understanding why multiple UANs are generated and how to merge them is essential for maintaining accurate EPF records. In this guide, you’ll learn the key reasons behind duplicate UANs and follow a clear, step-by-step process to merge them online. By consolidating your accounts, you can simplify EPF management and ensure seamless handling of your retirement savings.
Key Takeaways
-
Employees should have only one active UAN, as multiple UANs violate EPFO rules and regulations.
-
Duplicate UANs commonly occur due to non-disclosure of previous UAN or employer delays in updating exit details.
-
Having two UANs can cause issues in tracking EPF contributions, withdrawals, and KYC verification processes.
-
The EPFO portal allows users to initiate UAN merging online through the “One Member – One EPF Account” service.
What Are The Reasons For Two UAN Numbers?
Before learning how to merge two UAN numbers online, it is important to understand why multiple UANs may be created.
-
Employee’s Failure to Disclose Previous UAN
When changing jobs, employees must provide their existing Universal Account Number (UAN) and EPF details to the new employer. These details allow proper linking of accounts and smooth transfer of provident fund balances. If an employee fails to share this information, the new employer may create a new EPF account and generate a fresh UAN. This results in two UANs being assigned to the same individual.
-
Delay in Updating Date of Exit by Previous Employer
Employers must update an employee’s “Date of Exit” in EPFO records immediately after separation. This update ensures accurate record-keeping and allows seamless transfer of EPF accounts to the new employer. If the previous employer delays or fails to update this information, the system may not reflect the employee’s exit. To continue EPF contributions, the new employer may generate a new UAN, leading to duplication.
What Happens When You Have 2 UANs
Having two UANs can create compliance and account management issues for employees. The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) permits only one active UAN per individual, and holding multiple UANs is not allowed.
This duplication can make it difficult to track EPF contributions accurately and may lead to delays in transferring funds between employers. It can also affect withdrawal requests, KYC verification, and overall account management.
Inconsistent records may further delay processing or result in rejections. To avoid these issues and ensure the smooth handling of EPF savings, employees should promptly merge duplicate UANs.
Also Read About: Bulk UAN Generation
What Should You Do If You Are Allotted Two UANs?
If you find yourself with two UANs, the EPFO website offers two methods to resolve the issue. Here's what you can do:
Method 1
-
Notify your current employer or directly contact the EPFO about the issue as soon as you become aware of it.
-
Send a detailed email to uanepf@epfindia.gov.in, clearly stating both your current and previous UANs and providing any additional relevant information.
-
The EPFO will then initiate a thorough verification process to confirm the existence and status of both UANs.
-
Following successful verification, your previous UAN will be promptly blocked to prevent any further use, safeguarding your account information. Meanwhile, your current UAN will remain active to ensure uninterrupted access to your EPF account.
-
After this, you'll need to file a formal claim to transfer your EPF account, which is linked with the blocked UAN, to your new active account. This consolidation of your EPF holdings will streamline your account management and ensure accuracy in your records.
It's worth noting that this method may take some time to complete, and the success rate of resolution can vary. Consequently, the EPFO has introduced an alternative method to streamline the process of merging two UANs and transferring your EPF.
Method 2
-
Request the transfer of EPF funds from the old UAN to the new one through your employer or directly through the EPFO's designated channels, clearly specifying your request.
-
The EPFO's advanced system infrastructure will automatically identify duplicate UANs during its routine checks and validation processes.
-
Upon successful identification, the EPFO will take necessary action by deactivating the old UAN associated with the EPF transfer. Simultaneously, your previous member ID will be seamlessly linked to the new UAN, ensuring the consolidation of your EPF holdings under a single account.
-
If you haven't already activated the new UAN, you'll receive prompt instructions to do so. This will enable you to access your updated account status without any delays or complications.
It's important to handle this promptly because when you receive PF arrears from a previous employer, they will be deposited into your current PF account linked to your existing UAN.
How To Merge Two UAN Numbers Online?
Before initiating the merger, ensure your new UAN has been active for at least 3 days. Attempting to merge before this period may result in an error on the portal. Here is how to merge two UAN numbers online and consolidate your EPF accounts for easier management:
1. Log in to the EPFO Website
Start by accessing the official website of the Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) and logging in using your UAN and password.
2. Access 'One member – One EPF Account'
Navigate through the website's menu or options to locate the section titled 'One Member – One EPF Account' under the online services tab.
3. Review Personal Details
Take a moment to carefully review all the personal information displayed on the subsequent page after accessing the 'One Member – One EPF Account' section. Ensure that your name, date of birth, contact details, and other relevant information are accurately reflected.
4. Verify PF Information
Initiate the verification process by clicking on the option to 'Get Details.' This action prompts the system to retrieve and display your Provident Fund (PF) information associated with both UANs.
5. Request OTP
Proceed with the merging process by requesting an OTP (One-Time Password) for authentication purposes. This OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number and is required to verify your identity and authorise the merging of your EPF accounts.
6. Enter OTP and Submit
Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number into the designated field on the website and click 'Submit' to proceed with the merging process.
7. Complete Form 13
After successful authentication, you'll be required to fill out Form 13 provided on the website with all the necessary details accurately. This form serves as the formal request for merging your EPF accounts associated with the two UANs.
8. Receive Tracking ID
Upon successful completion of Form 13, a unique Tracking ID will be generated and provided to you. This Tracking ID serves as a reference number that allows you to track the progress of your merger request and monitor its status throughout the process.
9. Submit Signed Form to Employer
After receiving your Tracking ID, your employer will be notified digitally to verify and approve the transfer request through the EPFO employer portal. Physical submission of a printed Form 13 may be required in limited offline cases — check with your employer whether this applies. Your employer will facilitate the verification process as part of their responsibilities in managing your EPF accounts.
10. Employer Verification
Either your current or previous employer can verify and attest Form 13. Attestation by the present employer is generally faster, and in many cases, only one employer's approval is required for EPFO to process the transfer. Upon their approval and verification, the EPFO will process the merger of your EPF accounts associated with the two UANs.
11. Completion of Account Transfer
Once the employer verification process is completed, the EPFO will finalise the transfer of your EPF accounts.
Also Read About: UAN Login Process
Conclusion
Managing multiple UANs can complicate EPF tracking, delay fund transfers, and disrupt withdrawals. Since only one UAN is allowed, merging duplicate accounts is essential for accurate records and seamless management. Taking timely action helps you avoid unnecessary delays and keeps your long-term financial planning on track.
Looking to take better control of your financial future beyond EPF? Open a Demat account with Angel One and start managing your investments smarter, alongside your retirement savings.
