Unblocking of inactive EPF accounts

UNBLOCKING INOPERATIVE EPF ACCOUNTS

When EPF account becomes inoperative 

An EPF account becomes inoperative if there are no contributions for 36 months, but the balance still earns interest. Such accounts are typically those where employees have left their jobs and not transferred or withdrawn their EPF balance. 

Unblocking of inoperative EPF Accounts:   

1. The EPFO has made the process of unblocking your account smoother with 

• digital tools, 
• including OTP verification and 
• claim tracking through the UMANG App.

2. Keep your KYC information updated to avoid delays and utilize the EPFO’s grievance redressal system if needed.

Unblocking Process

The process for unblocking an inoperative EPF account varies slightly depending on whether the account is linked to a Universal Account Number (UAN) and whether the KYC (Know Your Customer) details are seeded.   

1. Accounts Linked to UAN with KYC Seeded:

• Online Request:
  • Log in to the EPF Member Portal (https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in/).
  • Navigate to the “Claim” section and select “Withdrawal Claim.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to submit a request for unblocking.

• Employer Approval:
  • The employer will need to approve the request. If the employer is non-existent or closed, the request will be forwarded to the concerned field office.

2. Accounts Linked to UAN but KYC Not Seeded:

• Online or Offline Request:
  • You can either submit a request online through the member portal or visit the nearest EPFO office.   
  • Additional verification might be required, including providing KYC documents.

3. Accounts Not Linked to UAN:

• Visit EPFO Office:
  • You’ll need to visit the EPFO office where your account is maintained.
  • Provide necessary documents to prove your identity and link your account to your UAN.

Note:

• One of the most important steps is to ensure that your Aadhaar is linked to your UAN. You can do this by logging into the EPFO Member Portal and updating your KYC details.
• If you have moved jobs, you need to transfer your EPF balance from the old account to your new employer’s EPF account. You can do this by logging into the EPFO Unified Portal, submitting a transfer request, and verifying it through your new employer.

Disclaimer:  Every effort has been made to avoid errors or omissions in this material. In spite of this, errors may creep in. Any mistake, error or discrepancy noted may be brought to our notice which shall be taken care of in the next edition. In no event the author shall be liable for any direct, indirect, special or incidental damage resulting from or arising out of or in connection with the use of this information.