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Avoiding and Fixing Duplicate UANs: A Comprehensive Guide for Indian Employees

Understanding Universal Account Number (UAN)

The Universal Account Number (UAN) is a 12-digit identification number issued by the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) to every employee contributing to the Employees' Provident Fund. It remains constant throughout an employee's career, facilitating seamless EPF contributions and withdrawals.

How to avoid duplicate UANs? Know how to fix duplicate UANs, causes of duplication and other details

Why Duplicate UANs Occur

Duplicate UANs often arise when employees change jobs without transferring their EPF account to the new employer. Reasons include the previous employer not updating the exit date in the Electronic Challan and Return (ECR) and employees not communicating their existing UAN to the new employer.

Resolving Duplicate UANs

To resolve duplicate UANs, employees should report the issue to EPFO or their new employer. EPFO will verify and deactivate the old UAN, allowing the transfer of the EPF balance to the new account. This ensures a single active UAN for seamless EPF transactions.

Importance of Resolving Duplicate UANs

Resolving duplicate UANs is crucial for avoiding confusion in EPF contributions and withdrawals, ensuring seamless transactions, and complying with EPFO mandates. It simplifies the tracking and management of your EPF account.