File photo of an EPFO outrach programme in Baramulla, J&K
Annexure K Online Access Enhances PF Transparency
New Delhi: The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) today unveiled reforms to enhance access, transparency, and efficiency for its over 60 million members, as announced by Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya. The measures include the introduction of ‘Passbook Lite’ for simplified account access, online availability of the Transfer Certificate (Annexure K) for provident fund transfers, and a rationalised approval hierarchy to expedite claim settlements, addressing long-standing concerns about delays and accessibility in India’s largest social security system.
The ‘Passbook Lite’ feature, integrated into the EPFO member portal at https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in/memberinterface/, enables members to view a summarised record of their provident fund contributions, withdrawals, and balances directly within the portal. Previously, accessing these details required a separate login to the dedicated passbook portal, creating inconvenience. Passbook Lite streamlines this process, leveraging existing APIs to reduce system load and enhance operational efficiency, while allowing members to access all key services through a single login. For those needing a comprehensive view, including graphical displays, the existing passbook portal remains available. This reform aims to reduce grievances, improve transparency, and enhance user satisfaction for workers across sectors.
To improve transparency in provident fund transfers, EPFO has enabled members to download Annexure K, the Transfer Certificate, in PDF format directly from the member portal. When employees change jobs, their PF accounts are transferred via Form 13 online, generating Annexure K, which was previously shared only between PF offices and provided to members only upon request. This new feature allows members to track transfer applications in real time, verify that their balance and service period are correctly updated, and maintain a permanent digital record, particularly crucial for calculating benefits under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS). The reform promotes trust and ease of access for workers navigating career transitions.
EPFO has also overhauled its approval process to address delays in services such as PF transfers, settlements, advances, refunds, cheque/ECS/NEFT returns, and interest adjustments. Previously, these required multiple approvals from higher-level officers, such as Regional PF Commissioners (RPFC) or Officers-in-Charge, leading to prolonged processing times. Now, powers have been delegated to Assistant PF Commissioners and subordinate officials in a structured, tiered hierarchy. This rationalisation is expected to accelerate claim settlements, simplify service delivery, enhance accountability at field offices, and improve overall member experience.
These reforms target EPFO’s vast member base, ensuring that workers, from urban professionals to rural labourers, can manage their savings with greater ease and confidence. By integrating services, enhancing transparency, and reducing bureaucratic hurdles, EPFO aims to align its operations with the needs of a dynamic workforce, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of India’s social security framework.
– global bihari bureau
