EPFO Face Authentication: Big news for EPFO members. If you or any family member is receiving an EPFO pension, it’s essential to pay attention to a simple message on your mobile. Recently, EPFO has begun sending out face authentication messages to its users. Ignoring this message is not advisable. If you fail to follow the instructions provided by EPFO, your pension could be halted, and you might face difficulties in withdrawing your funds. However, there’s no need to panic.
You also don’t have to go anywhere for this process. You can complete it right from your mobile device while sitting at home. To make things easier for you, this article explains why you received this message, what face authentication entails, and how to complete the process from home.
What does the face authentication message mean?
EPFO is enhancing the security of its online services. Face authentication is a new technique that allows pensioners to submit their life certificates. In the past, this required a trip to a bank or EPFO office or a thumbprint. That’s no longer necessary. Now, you can simply scan your face with your mobile phone, and you will be recognized. This means you can complete the process from the comfort of your home without needing to travel anywhere.
Who is receiving this message?
This message is directed at pensioners enrolled in the EPS-95 scheme whose life certificates are nearing expiration. It also applies to those whose fingerprints may not be accurately captured by the machine due to their age. Even if you haven’t received this message, it’s wise to check on your pension. Failing to submit your life certificate on time could lead to your pension being stopped.
What are the consequences of not acting?
Many individuals think it’s just a message and plan to check it later. However, this can lead to significant issues for them. According to EPFO, if you do not submit your life certificate on time, your pension will be halted. Once your pension is stopped, you may find yourself running around various offices to get it reinstated. Additionally, it’s important to note that even if you manage to restart your halted pension, you will not receive any back payments for the time it was stopped.
Complete face authentication with this step-by-step guide
- Open the UMANG app and log in using your mobile number or Aadhaar.
- Type ‘EPFO’ in the search bar and navigate to that section.
- You’ll find the option for ‘UAN Allotment and Activation’ or ‘Face Authentication of Already Activated UANs’.
- Enter your Aadhaar number and registered mobile number and tick your consent.
- You’ll receive an OTP on your Aadhaar-linked mobile number. Enter it.
- Click ‘Scan Face’. Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Once the scan is successful, the system will update your data and your UAN will be generated/activated.
- You’ll receive a confirmation via SMS.
