EPFO Introduces Free Doorstep Digital Life Certificate Service for EPS Pensioners

The EPFO, in partnership with India Post Payment Bank (IPPB), has launched a free doorstep service to help EPS pensioners submit their Digital Life Certificates (DLCs). This initiative aims to make pension continuation easier for elderly pensioners and those who face challenges in accessing smartphones, banks, or EPFO offices.

The facility was announced through an EPFO circular issued on January 9, 2025.

Why Does This Service Matter?

Submitting a life certificate every year is essential for pensioners to continue receiving their pension. While many pensioners use digital platforms, some (especially senior citizens) find it difficult to complete the process due to mobility issues or lack of digital access.

The new doorstep service ensures that such pensioners are not excluded and can complete the process from the comfort of their homes, without paying any fee.

What Is a Digital Life Certificate?

A Digital Life Certificate, also known as Jeevan Pramaan, is a biometric-based digital proof that confirms a pensioner is alive. It uses Aadhaar-based authentication, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, to verify identity.

For EPS pensioners, the DLC is valid for one year from the date of submission. Unlike some other pension schemes, EPS members can submit their life certificate at any time during the year.

How Does the Doorstep Service Work?

Under this initiative, trained IPPB personnel, including postmen or dak sevaks, will visit eligible pensioners at home to complete the DLC process.

The steps involved are simple:

• The pensioner requests the doorstep service through IPPB.
• The IPPB official checks whether the DLC is due and verifies basic details such as name and date of birth with Aadhaar and the Pension Payment Order (PPO).
• The DLC is generated using facial authentication where possible. If that fails, other biometric methods are used through the Jeevan Pramaan application.
• Once submitted, the DLC is sent digitally to EPFO for approval.

If the pensioner is found to be deceased, the information is reported to EPFO for necessary action.

How Can Pensioners Avail the Service?

EPS pensioners can request the free doorstep DLC service by calling IPPB’s customer care number: 033-22029000 and asking for a home visit.

The service is completely free, as all charges are centrally paid by EPFO to IPPB for successful submissions.

When is a DLC Considered Successful?

A DLC is treated as valid when it is generated by an IPPB official, is due or nearing expiry within 30 days, and gets approved by EPFO after digital or manual verification of pensioner details.

Read more: IRCTC Introduces Aadhaar-Only Booking Rule for First Day of Train Ticket Sales.

Conclusion

EPFO’s free doorstep Digital Life Certificate service is a practical step towards improving pension access and convenience. By bringing essential services directly to pensioners’ homes, the initiative reduces dependency on physical visits and ensures uninterrupted pension payments for vulnerable groups.

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