How to merge multiple PF accounts?

Let us understand how you can merge multiple Provident Fund accounts.

Merging Provident Fund accounts
Salaried employees often end up with multiple Provident Fund (PF) accounts due to job changes over the course of their careers. Since each new employer creates a separate PF account, it becomes essential to consolidate them into a single account. This ensures accurate interest accumulation, simplifies fund management, and prevents complications during final withdrawal or pension calculation.

Activate UAN
It is important to first ensure that your Universal Account Number (UAN) is active. This unique number remains the same across jobs and is used to link all your PF accounts.

KYC details
You need to ensure that KYC details (like Aadhaar, PAN and bank account) are updated and verified in your current PF account. This is crucial for seamless transfer.

Initiate transfer on EPFO portal
Visit the EPFO member portal and log in using UAN and password. Under the ‘Online services’ tab, select ‘One member–One EPF account (transfer request)’. Enter previous PF account details and submit the request. The request is authenticated using Aadhaarbased OTP. Once submitted, the EPFO initiates the merging process.

Employer verification
The previous employer may need to verify your request digitally. After that’s approved, the funds and service details are transferred to your active PF account.

Points to note
• Only PF accounts linked to the same UAN can be merged.
• It is crucial to ensure previous employer’s exit dates are updated to avoid transfer delays.

Content on this page is courtesy Centre for Investment Education and Learning (CIEL).
Contributions by Girija Gadre, Arti Bhargava and Labdhi Mehta.


(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column are that of the writer. The facts and opinions expressed here do not reflect the views of www.economictimes.com)