The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced a fresh circular aimed at standardizing the process of correcting or updating details for Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) members. The newly issued circular outlines a comprehensive standard operating procedure (SOP) designed to facilitate the correction of EPF member details, encompassing crucial aspects such as name, date of birth, gender, and more. This systematic approach is set to streamline the updation of EPF profiles, reduce the chances of claims being rejected, and mitigate potential fraud resulting from data inconsistencies.

 

The circular, dated August 23, 2023, highlights that the lack of regulated and standardized processes has given rise to instances of unauthorized tampering with member identities, leading to impersonation and fraudulent activities.

 

The outlined SOP offers EPF members the ability to update 11 profile-related parameters which include name, gender, date of birth, father's name, relationship, marital status, date of joining, reason for leaving, date of leaving, nationality and Aadhaar number.

 

It's important to note that the changes to these parameters are categorized into minor and major changes. Regardless of the category, documentary proof is required to validate the requested changes.

 

Major changes in the EPF account details

 

 

For minor changes, a minimum of two documents from the prescribed list must be submitted. In the case of major changes, three documents will be necessary.

 

 

The distinctions between major and minor changes are clearly articulated in the circular. For instance, major changes include modifications to parameters such as name, date of birth, father's name, marital status, date of joining, reason for leaving, date of leaving, nationality, and Aadhaar number.

 

The circular sets a cap on the number of times corrections can be made in the EPF account holder's profile. Changes are allowed as follows:

 

According to the circular, an EPF member can typically make up to five changes out of the 11 parameters. However, if more than five changes are requested, additional scrutiny will be applied to prevent potential fraud.

 

The circular also specifies time limits for processing updation requests:

 

The EPFO circular mandates that EPF account holders submit applications for profile corrections via the Member Sewa portal. Required documents must also be uploaded on the portal for future reference. It's important to note that changes made by EPF members must be validated by their respective employers, as indicated in the circular.
 

Step by Step Guide to Applying for Changes in the EPF Account:

1. Visit the Member Sewa Portal: Access the EPFO's Member Sewa portal and log in using your Universal Account Number (UAN) and password.

 

2. Click on 'Joint Declaration (JD)' Tab: After logging in, navigate to the 'Joint Declaration (JD)' tab. An OTP (one-time password) will be sent to your UIDAI-linked mobile number.

 

3. Enter OTP: Input the received OTP, and a joint declaration form will appear on your screen.

 

4. Submit Required Details: Fill in the required details on the joint declaration form. You will also need to upload supporting documents as mentioned in the prescribed list.
 

After submitting the request, your employer will need to verify the changes against their records. If the information matches, the joint declaration application will be forwarded to the EPFO office for updation. If there are any discrepancies, the application will be sent back to you, and these details will be reflected on your EPFO account.

 

Documents' List for Making Changes in EPF Account:

The EPFO has outlined a list of documents that must be uploaded along with the application form to correct login details:

1. For Name and Gender Correction: Aadhaar is mandatory for submission. For minor updation, along with Aadhaar, an additional document such as passport, PAN card, or voter card is required. In the case of name correction after the demise of the EPF member, legal heirs should submit the death certificate.

 

2. For Date of Birth Correction: Depending on the type of correction needed, the birth certificate, passport, or Aadhaar can be submitted.

 

3. For Father/Mother Name Correction: For major changes, at least two documents are required along with Aadhaar.

 

4. For Relationship Correction: Necessary documents should be submitted, depending on the type of correction.

 

5. For Marital Status Correction: For changes made when the EPF member is alive, the required documents must be submitted.

 

6. For Date of Joining and Leaving Correction: Changes related to these dates are allowed only when the EPF member is alive.

 

7. For Nationality Correction: Depending on the type of change, specific documents should be submitted.

 

8. For Aadhaar Number Correction: All types of changes or updates related to Aadhaar should be supported by relevant documents.

 

The EPFO has taken a proactive approach to enhance the accuracy and reliability of EPF member profiles. By implementing a structured procedure for updating details and ensuring proper validation, the EPFO aims to ensure the integrity of EPF accounts and provide a secure platform for members to manage their information effectively.