EPFO Warns: Avoid Agents, Use Official Portals for Free & Secure PF Services

Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has issued a stern advisory to all its more than 7 crore members to avoid unauthorized third-party operators and agents to avail any provident fund services. The action has been taken in the wake of increasing cases of cybercafés and fintech operators making hefty payments for free services, which could be easily done online.

 

Key Highlights:

 

•⁠  ⁠All EPFO services are at no cost: Members can modify KYC, file claims, transfer funds, and resolve grievances on the official EPFO website and UMANG app at no cost.

 

•⁠  ⁠No intermediaries required: EPFO does not allow any outside intermediaries who are likely to compromise members' financial information or collect unnecessary commissions.

 

•⁠  ⁠Recent enhancements: The claim process for transfers no longer involves employer approval in most cases, and KYC/bank account updates have been streamlined—online self-service has never been simpler.

 

•⁠  ⁠Redressal of grievances in a timely manner: 98% of grievances are redressed within the given time limit by EPFO's CPGRAMS and EPFiGMS portals.

 

Prospect: With more online facilities and simple processes, EPFO members can manage their accounts safely and independently. The corporation still remains transparent and urges all the stakeholders to use just authorized mediums—providing security for their funds and information in the online age.

 

Source: Business Today, PIB, DD News, Economic Times