How to Check Your EPF Balance Online?

What is EPF?

The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) is a government-backed retirement savings scheme in India designed to build financial security for salaried workers. Under this scheme, the employer and employee each contribute 12% of the employee’s basic pay and dearness allowance on a monthly basis. These contributions collectively accumulate into the provident fund, which earns an annual interest rate of 8.25% for 2023-24 as declared by EPFO¹.

Understanding what a provident fund is crucial because it forms one of the largest long-term savings tools in the country, covering over 277 million members as of March 2024. The importance of checking EPF balance lies in accurate financial planning, ensuring that savings are aligned with retirement goals. Regular monitoring also helps employees verify employer contributions, plan timely withdrawals, and maintain proper tax filing records, since EPF withdrawals after five years are tax-exempt under Indian law.

 

How to check your EPF balance online?

You can check your EPF balance online in multiple ways, via the EPFO Member Passbook portal, the UMANG app, SMS, or a missed call. Each method ties to your UAN and mobile number, offering fast updates on contributions, interest credits, and claim status. This guide explains how to use each option clearly and safely so you can monitor your EPF anytime, anywhere.

 

1. Via EPFO Member Passbook Portal (Using UAN)

   If you are wondering how to check EPF balance online using the EPFO portal, the process is straightforward through the official EPF passbook facility. The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation provides a dedicated passbook portal where registered members can view their contributions. To begin, ensure your UAN activation is complete, as the Universal Account Number is mandatory for access. Once activated, log in using your UAN and password.

   An OTP verification step secures the login process. After successful login, you can view your passbook that reflects monthly contributions from both employer and employee, along with accrued interest. According to one report, 12.6 million² UANs were generated in 2024-25, highlighting the scale of its usage. Members can also download the passbook in PDF format, making it easy to track balances anytime.

   
   

2. Check EPF Balance on the UMANG App

   The government-backed UMANG app integrates multiple citizen services, including EPF. To check your EPF balance on the UMANG app, first complete app registration using your mobile number.

   Once logged in, select the EPFO option, where you can access services linked to your UAN. If your UAN is active, you can view your passbook, check withdrawal claims, and download statements. For those asking how to check EPF status online, the app provides real-time claim tracking as well.

   According to a press release³, the UMANG has crossed 8 crore user registrations, reflecting its wide adoption. Since it supports multiple Indian languages, employees across different regions find it accessible. With the app, EPF services become available round-the-clock without the need to visit the EPFO office.

   
   

3. Checking EPF Balance through SMS Service

   If you are searching for how to check my PF balance by SMS, the EPF balance SMS service offers this option. This service is available only when your Universal Account Number (UAN) is active and linked with Aadhaar, PAN, and your bank account as part of KYC compliance. Without these prerequisites, the request will not be processed.

   To use the facility, type an SMS in the format EPFOHO UAN <Language Code> and send it to 7738299899⁴. For example, sending EPFOHO UAN gives details in English by default. The service supports multiple languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, and several others, allowing members across regions to access it conveniently. So, if you send EPFOHO UAN HIN, you’ll receive your details in Hindi, and EPFOHO UAN TAM to get in Tamil.

   This EPF balance SMS service is especially useful for employees who prefer not to log into the EPFO portal or mobile applications.

   
   

4. Checking EPF Balance via Missed Call Service

   If you prefer a quick method without internet access, you can check your EPF balance by missed call. EPFO offers a toll-free service where you simply give a missed call to 9966044425 from your registered mobile number⁵. Within a few seconds, you will receive an SMS containing your account balance, recent contributions, and UAN-related details.

   To use this EPF balance missed call number, your mobile number must be linked to your UAN and KYC details, such as Aadhaar, PAN, and bank account. This option is especially convenient for those who want instant updates without logging in to a portal or app. Since the call is toll-free, there are no additional charges. It is one of the fastest and most accessible ways to stay updated on your provident fund savings.

   
   

5. How to Check EPF Balance Without UAN Number?

   A common question is how to check the PF balance without a UAN. While UAN simplifies access, these alternatives can still help:

   • Contact Your HR or Employer: Many organisations can provide your current PF balance directly or via salary slips or pay statements.
   • Visit Your Local EPFO Office: You can request your balance in person using your PF account number and identity proof.
   • Refer to Your Salary Slip: Some employers include PF deduction and balance details on monthly payslips.
   • You can also check your PF balance through SMS or missed call alerts, but only if your UAN is active and linked to your Aadhaar, PAN, and bank account.

   While these methods work in a pinch, activating and linking your UAN is highly recommended, as it ensures quick, digital access to your EPF account, including passbook, UMANG app, SMS, or missed call services, for seamless and hassle-free monitoring over time.

   
   

6. How to Check EPF Balance for Exempted Establishments (Private Trusts)?

   If you work for an exempted establishment (private trust managing its own PF), your PF won’t appear in EPFO’s portal. Here’s what you can do:

   • Contact your company’s HR or trust administrator. They typically maintain a separate internal portal or passbook system for PF.
   • Log in to the internal employee PF portal, if available, using your employee credentials to view your contributions and interest.
   • Request PF statements directly from HR; many establishments issue monthly or annual PF summaries upon request.
   • Ensure your UAN (if linked) is used when transferring or validating PF with EPFO during job changes. While exempted PF accounts aren’t visible, UAN helps maintain continuity if you ever need to merge contributions.

   These steps help you stay updated on your Provident Fund status, even when it's managed outside the EPFO system.

   
   

Common Issues While Checking EPF Balance and How to Fix Them

EPF balances may not reflect immediately if employers delay filing monthly returns. While contributions are typically updated within a few weeks of remittance, delays can occur. If your balance isn’t updated, it’s advisable to first confirm with your HR. If unresolved, you can raise a complaint through the EPFO Grievance Portal

Another common roadblock is UAN login issues. With over 12.6 millionUANs generated during the year 2024-25, forgotten passwords or account lockouts are not unusual. The fix is straightforward: use the “Forgot Password” option on the EPFO Member Login page and reset through Aadhaar-linked details.

OTP errors also frustrate many users. In most cases, the problem is an outdated mobile number in your records. Updating your KYC with Aadhaar or PAN under the “Manage” section of the portal usually clears this up.

Finally, heavy traffic on the portal due to multiple people logging in can cause EPF portal problems, especially during interest crediting. If that happens, logging in during non-peak hours or switching to the UMANG App often works better.

 

Benefits of Regularly Checking Your EPF Balance Online

By keeping an eye on your EPF account, you ensure contributions are accurate, interest is credited, and discrepancies are caught early. This habit empowers your financial planning, helps with smoother withdrawals, and supports effective tax filing. Regularly monitoring your EPF balance offers several advantages and supports your financial well-being. Some of the benefits include:

1. Withdrawal Planning: You know exactly when and how much you can withdraw for emergencies .
2. Error Detection: You spot missing deposits or mismatched data early and get HR or EPFO to fix it.
3. Loan Readiness: You can swiftly access EPF-funded loans when you have up-to-date balance info.
4. Tax Documentation: Accurate EPF records make filing returns easier and help claim correct deductions as it helps to keep the records under monthly and annual check.
5. Retirement Clarity: Tracking growth regularly shows how your corpus is compounding, letting you adjust your long-term saving strategy.
    

Tips to Manage Your EPF Account Effectively

When it comes to managing your EPF account, consistency is the key. Simply knowing that your employer is depositing funds is not enough.

1. A good starting point is to check your account regularly so that you are aware of contributions, interest updates, and any discrepancies that may need attention.
2. Another smart move is to link your Aadhaar, PAN, and bank account details with your EPF profile. This makes online transfers and withdrawals more seamless and helps avoid unnecessary delays.
3. Alongside this, make sure that your KYC details are always current. If your mobile number, address, or email changes, update them immediately to stay connected with official notifications.
4. One often overlooked but essential step is to set up a valid nominee. By nominating family members, you ensure that your savings reach them without complications in case of unforeseen events.

By following these practical EPF account tips, you can keep your funds secure, your details updated, and your account ready for smooth transactions at any point.

 

Key Takeaways

1. You have several ways to view your PF balance, including the EPFO portal, UMANG app, missed call facility, and the EPF balance SMS service.
2. To use the SMS option, make sure your UAN is active and your KYC details, such as Aadhaar, PAN, and bank account, are linked.
3. Sending the format EPFOHO UAN <Language Code> to 7738299899⁴ will give you your balance instantly.
4. The service works in multiple languages, so you can check details in one you are comfortable with.
5. Even if you are offline, SMS and missed call options keep your PF information within reach.
    

Conclusion

Keeping track of your EPF balance is vital for staying informed about your retirement savings and ensuring each contribution works in your favour. With convenient digital options, whether via portal, app, SMS, or call, you can check your balance effortlessly. Delays or errors can be fixed early when you monitor regularly. Integrating this into your routine ensures your provident fund remains a reliable cornerstone of your long-term financial strategy.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you check your EPF balance without linking Aadhaar and PAN?

   Yes, you can check your EPF balance without linking Aadhaar and PAN by using SMS, a missed call, or the UMANG app, as long as your UAN is activated and linked to your registered mobile number.

   
   

2. How often will your EPF balance be updated on the portal?

   Your balance updates once your employer deposits contributions. The reflection may take some time, depending on how quickly payments are processed and confirmed in the system.

   
   

3. What should you do if your EPF balance shows zero despite contributions?

   First, confirm with your employer that deposits have been made. If the issue continues, you can raise a request through the EPF grievance portal or contact customer service directly.

   
   

4. Can you check the EPF balance of your previous employer through UAN?

   Yes, you can. Since one UAN is valid across jobs, all your accounts stay linked. This lets you check balances from both your current and past employers.

   
   

5. Do you have to pay any charges for checking your EPF balance?

   No, you don’t. Checking your EPF balance is free of cost. Only your telecom provider may apply normal SMS or call rates when you use those options.

Source

1. https://www.epfindia.gov.in/site_docs/PDFs/EPFO_PRESS_RELEASES/Interest_Rate_Press_Release_10-02-2024%20.pdf
2. https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/employees-can-now-generate-epfo-uan-through-face-authentication-8117365
3. https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?ModuleId=3&NoteId=154788&id=154788
4. https://www.epfindia.gov.in/site_docs/PDFs/MiscPDFs/Short_Code_SMS_Service.pdf
5. https://www.epfindia.gov.in/site_docs/PDFs/MiscPDFs/Missed_Call_Service.pdf
6. https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/employees-can-now-generate-epfo-uan-through-face-authentication-8117365