Not having access to the UAN number can be one of the biggest obstacles when it comes to accessing the PF balance, downloading the passbook, or transferring money after changing jobs. However, there is no need for extensive paperwork or a time-consuming process to get back the number, as recently, the EPFO portal was revamped, which helps you retrieve the 12-digit number online within less than two minutes. This guide for 2026 will help you understand how you can easily retrieve your EPF number within less than two minutes.

What Is A UAN Number?

Universal Account Number (UAN) is a unique 12-digit identification number which has been allotted by the Ministry of Labour and Employment to all employees working in the corporate sector who contribute to EPF.

How To Find Your UAN Number Online: Step-by-Step Guide

The most straightforward online route to check your UAN is through the official EPFO Member Portal.

Step 1: Visit The Member e-Sewa Portal

Open your web browser and navigate directly to the official EPFO Unified Member Portal.

Step 2: Access The Retrieval Tool

Look at the bottom-right corner of the login screen under the Important Links section. Click on the link that reads ‘Know your UAN.’

Step 3: Validate Your Mobile Number

Enter your active mobile number and the alphanumeric Captcha code displayed on the screen. Click on ‘Request OTP.’ Type in the one-time password received on your phone to complete the initial verification.

Step 4: Submit Identity Details

Fill in your official Name (as it appears on your government documents), your Date of Birth, and choose an identification document to proceed (Aadhaar, PAN, or Member ID).

Step 5: Reveal Your UAN

Enter the final Captcha code and click on the ‘Show My UAN’ button. Your 12-digit Universal Account Number will immediately appear on your screen, and an automated text message containing the number will be sent to your mobile phone.

How To Retrieve UAN Using Aadhaar, PAN Or Mobile Number

Once you move to Step 4 through the online portal, you are free to use any of the documents based on your convenience, and the portal uses the following credentials for fetching your matching record from the database:

  • Using the Aadhaar Card: You just need to click on the Aadhaar tab, enter your full name on the card, your date of birth, and your 12-digit Aadhaar identification number. 

  • Using the PAN Card: In case your Aadhaar card is unavailable at the moment, then use the PAN tab. Enter your alphanumeric Permanent Account Number along with your date of birth.

  • Using a registered mobile number: Keep in mind that a mobile number alone cannot be used for searching. Your active mobile number will serve as the main portal for initiating your authorisation PIN.

What To Do If You Can't Find Your UAN

If the online portal throws an error or you get stuck, don't worry; you have multiple highly reliable alternative options to fall back on:

Method

Where to Look / What to Do

Check Your Salary Slip

Check your payslip. Most companies display the UAN right next to your Employee ID or PAN details.

Contact Your HR Department

Reach out to the Human Resources or corporate payroll department of your current or previous employer. They retain a master record of all corporate UAN allocations.

The Missed Call Service

Give a missed call to 011-22901406 using your registered mobile number. The line disconnects automatically, and your details arrive via text within a minute.

SMS Service Gateway

Send a text message formatted as EPFOHO UAN ENG to 7738299899 from your registered number. You will receive your UAN and structural PF balance info instantly.

Tips To Keep Your EPFO Account Updated

Finding your number is just the beginning. To make sure that your money stays safe and accessible, here are some important things to consider:

  • Verifying Your Aadhaar: Make sure that your identity proof is linked and verified through the portal. It will help prevent any discrepancies with the data and allow you to withdraw your PF balance using online procedures without the need for corporate signatures.

  • Keep Your Contact Details Updated: In case you happen to change your mobile phone number or email ID, update them at once by clicking on the ‘Profile’ tab on the Member portal.

  • Prevent Dual Allocations: If, due to any mistake, your new company assigns you a duplicate UAN, then inform your HR department about it and raise a complaint regarding this issue on the EPFO Grievance Portal.

Image credits: Freepik

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