Did you know that your Universal Account Number (UAN) is not just a number but your identity for your Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF)? It is a unique number that you get for EPF. Your employer uses this number to deposit your PF contribution and update your balance. But if you do not give this number to your new employer, your contribution will not be deposited in your EPF account. This small mistake can cost you heavily in the future.
What will happen without UAN?
If you do not share your UAN with your new employer, it can have many serious consequences:
1. The previous EPF account will become inactive
If you do not provide your UAN, your previous EPF account becomes inactive. This means that your or your new employer’s PF contribution is no longer reaching your PF account. You may face problems like interruption in contribution and delay in withdrawal. In the worst case, the new employer will assume that you are working, but there is no contribution to your PF account, which may create problems in the future.
2. PF transfer may be problematic
Automatic transfer: When you provide your UAN number, your EPF contribution is also transferred automatically from the old account to the new account. If you skip this step, you will have to transfer it manually. This will waste your time and also result in a loss of interest for the period when you did not make your contribution.
3. EPFO database may be at risk
Skipping this important step may also put the EPFO database at risk. If your new employer does not match your active profile, you may face trouble. EPFO keeps a close watch on compliance, and any discrepancy may lead to salary settlement delays or even an employer audit. This can be a hassle for both you and your employer.
Your UAN is not just a number, but the key to your future financial security. It is important to take it seriously and provide it to the new employer on time. This will ensure that your PF contributions continue to be credited to your account without any interruption, and you can build a strong fund for your retirement.