UAN (Universal Account Number)
The UAN is a 12-digit number issued by EPFO that links your PF accounts across employers, in India. Your UAN stays the same when you change jobs; give it to each new employer so your PF accounts stay linked. You can also look it up on the EPFO member portal.
Why it matters
Each employer you join may open a new member ID for your PF. The UAN is the one number that ties them together, so your contributions from every job show in one place.
What to do when you join a new job
- Give your existing UAN to the new employer's HR or payroll team at joining. Do not ask for a new one.
- Ask them to link the new PF account to the same UAN.
- Log in to the EPFO member portal after a month or two and check that the new employer's contributions are showing.
- Keep your UAN with your offer letter, payslips and Form 16.
If you have lost your UAN
Look it up on the EPFO member portal or on an old payslip, since many payslips print it. If you cannot find it, ask your last employer's HR team.
Common mistakes
- Letting a second UAN be created for the same person. Tell HR you already have one.
- Not checking the passbook after changing jobs.
- Ignoring PF at a job you left, which can leave a balance sitting idle.
How it shows up for job seekers
New employers ask for it at joining, and some ask for your last employer's PF details. Having it ready helps your first payroll run.
Example
New employers ask for it at joining. You give the same 12-digit number you have used in every earlier job.
Related terms and guides
Sources
- EPFO, Employees' Provident Fund Organisation, https://www.epfindia.gov.in, live official page, linked for readers; link checked 2026-10-30, page blocks automated reads so no figure is copied from it
This is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change and your situation may differ. Consult a licensed attorney or qualified adviser.