EPFO Rule: If you are currently employed or approaching retirement, you have probably come across the PPO number. Many individuals tend to forget it after jotting it down in their diary, assuming it is just a simple figure. However, for pensioners, this number holds more significance than their Aadhaar card. Its complete designation is Pension Payment Order (PPO). This number serves as a crucial identification for retired individuals who are receiving a pension under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS). It is overseen by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO).
This 12-digit number is vital for tracking your pension, updating records, or lodging complaints. It is regarded as your pension identification number; without it, the EPFO will be unable to determine how much pension to disburse to you and which bank account to credit. If you have misplaced your PPO number or have not received your PPO document, you can recover it through online or offline methods.
PPO number required
To carry out any pension-related tasks with the EPFO or your bank, you will need your PPO number. This is necessary when you submit your life certificate. It is also required to check the status of your pension. Additionally, the PPO number is essential for transferring your pension account. If you wish to file a complaint regarding your pension account or make any amendments, you will need the PPO number for all these activities.
How to find your PPO number?
If you are nearing retirement or are already receiving a pension, obtaining your PPO number is quite straightforward. Once your pension is sanctioned, your employer or the EPFO office will provide you with a hard copy of the PPO document. Your PPO number will be prominently displayed at the top of this document. In case you have lost it or did not receive it initially, you can retrieve your PPO number through both online and offline channels.
How can you obtain your PPO number online?
1. Using the EPFO Pensioners Portal
Go to the official EPFO pensioners’ portal. In the section labeled “Know Your PPO Number,” input your registered bank account number or EPS member ID. If your information aligns with the EPFO records, your PPO number will be shown right away.
2. Through the UMANG app
The UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-Age Governance) app provided by the government makes it easy. After logging in, navigate to ‘EPFO’ Services, then ‘Pensioner Services,’ and choose ‘Know Your PPO Number.’ You can obtain your PPO number by entering your Aadhaar or the bank account details linked to your pension.
3. Using DigiLocker
EPFO has introduced the option to download your PPO certificate via DigiLocker as part of the Digital India initiative. Download the DigiLocker app or go to digilocker.gov.in. Sign up and connect your Aadhaar (ensure that the mobile number linked to your Aadhaar is active for OTP verification). Look for “Employees Provident Fund Organisation” in ‘Issued Documents’ and enter your PPO number along with the last four digits of the bank account associated with your pension. After verification, your PPO certificate will be generated directly from the EPFO records.
How to obtain your PPO number offline?
If online methods aren’t your preference, you can visit a branch of your pension-paying bank. Provide the bank official with the savings account number associated with your pension. They will be able to retrieve your PPO number from their system and provide it to you.
Will the pension be stopped if the PPO number is lost?
Losing this number won’t stop your pension, but it can certainly hinder pension-related work. Your bank account is linked to your pension account, and payments are automatic. However, you may encounter difficulties getting some work done, such as submitting your pension certificate or making updates to your pension account. However, you can also find this number on your pension slip or pension passbook. If you don’t have this document, you can obtain it online.