How To Merge Two UAN Numbers Online

When it comes to managing your Employee Provident Fund (EPF) accounts, having multiple Universal Account Numbers (UANs) can be both confusing and problematic. It's a common situation that arises when employees switch jobs, often leading to the allocation of a new UAN for their new employment. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the existence of two UAN numbers, rising causes, and the steps to merge them seamlessly.

We'll delve into the two methods provided by the Employee Provident fund organization and (EPFO) to rectify the situation. You'll learn how to merge two UAN numbers online, ensuring compliance with Indian EPF regulations.

So, whether you're facing this dilemma or simply want to be prepared for the future, read on to discover how to merge two UAN numbers and make your EPF management more convenient and legally compliant.
 

Reasons for two UAN numbers

When an employee changes jobs and moves from one company to another, they often encounter situations where a new UAN is allotted to them, resulting in two UAN numbers. This occurrence can be attributed to a couple of common scenarios:

1. Non-Disclosure of Previous UAN by the Employee: When an employee switches jobs, they are typically required to disclose their previous UAN and EPF (Employee Provident Fund) account number (also known as Member ID) to their new employer. This is important for the seamless transfer of their EPF funds and the continuity of their PF account. However, if the employee fails to provide these details, the new employer may open a new EPF account for them and generate a new UAN. This can lead to the existence of two UANs, one associated with their previous employment and the other with the current one.

2. Delay in Reporting "Date of Exit" by the Previous Employer: The employee's previous employer plays a crucial role in this process. They are responsible for reporting the "Date of Exit" accurately and promptly in the Electronic Challan and Return (ECR) system. This information is vital for ensuring the smooth transfer of EPF accounts and linking the UAN with the new employer. If the previous employer doesn't provide the "Date of Exit" on time, or if there is a delay in doing so, the new employer may proceed to allot a new EPF number and UAN to the employee. This delay in the exit date reporting can lead to the existence of two UANs for the same individual.
 

What to Do If You Have Two UANs Allotted?

If you find yourself with two UANs, there are two methods to rectify this situation, as provided by the EPFO website. 

Here's how to address the issue:

Method 1

1. Report the matter promptly to your current employer or directly to the EPFO.
2. Send an email to uanepf@epfindia.gov.in, clearly stating both your current and previous UANs.
3. The EPFO will initiate a verification process.
4. Subsequently, your previous UAN will be blocked, while your current UAN will remain active.
5. After this, you must file a claim to transfer your EPF account (linked with the blocked UAN) to your new active account.

Note:This process can be time-consuming, and the success rate of resolution is relatively low. Therefore, the EPFO has introduced an alternative method to simplify the process of merging two UANs and transferring your EPF. 

Method 2

1. The EPFO member should request the transfer of EPF funds from the old UAN to the new one.
2. The EPFO system will automatically identify duplicate UANs as part of its routine checks.
3. Upon proper identification, the old UAN associated with the EPF transfer will be deactivated by the EPFO, and the employee's previous member ID will be linked to the new UAN. An SMS will be sent to inform the employee of this deactivation.
4. If the employee has not already activated the new UAN, they will be prompted to do so to access the updated account status.

Sometimes, when you get PF arrears from a past employer, they will be deposited into your current PF account connected to your existing UAN. This process occurs at regular intervals, so it's essential to promptly transfer the old EPF to the new one. Your UAN will be updated in the Electronic Challan and Return system automatically.
 

The Importance of Combining Two UAN Numbers

When you discover that you possess two active UAN (Universal Account Number) numbers, it's crucial to merge them. Having two active UANs is against the law in India. 

To streamline your EPF accounts, you should have just one active UAN number. Deactivate the old one and transfer your EPF account to the new UAN. This way, all your previous EPF accounts will link to your current one.
 

How to Combine Two UAN Numbers Online?

If you find yourself with two UAN (Universal Account Number) numbers and need to merge them, you can follow these steps to do it online:

1. Go to the official EPFO website.
2. Log in by providing your UAN number and password.
3. Under the 'Online Services' tab, select 'One Member – One EPF Account.'
4. Review and confirm all your details on the subsequent page.
5. Click on 'Get Details' to verify your PF (Provident Fund) information.
6. After confirming the PF details, click on 'Get OTP.'
7. Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number and click 'Submit' to proceed.
8. You will then be required to complete Form 13 with all the necessary information.
9. Once you have successfully filled out the form, a Tracking ID will be generated. This ID allows you to monitor the progress of the transfer.
10. Within 10 days, submit a signed copy of the form to your current employer.
11. Both your current and previous employers will verify your details, and upon their approval, the transfer of your account will be completed.