How to Find Your PF Number in India: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide 2025

If you’re wondering how to find PF number, it’s essential to know that every employee with an EPF account gets a unique identifier from the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO). This is especially important if you’ve changed jobs often or lost track of your employment details.

If you’re an employee in India, chances are you have a Provident Fund (PF) account. Your PF number is a unique identification number assigned to you by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO), and it plays a crucial role in managing your savings for retirement. Whether you’re trying to check your PF balance, track your contributions, or just need your PF number for some other reason, knowing how to find it is essential.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the simple steps on how to find your PF number quickly and easily. Whether you’re looking to retrieve it online via the EPFO portal or need assistance recovering it if you’ve forgotten it, we’ve got you covered. With just a few easy steps, you’ll be able to access your PF number and manage your Provident Fund efficiently.

What is the PF Number?

Before we dive into how to find your PF number, let’s briefly discuss what it is. A Provident Fund (PF) number is a unique number assigned to every employee working under the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) in India. The number helps track the contributions made by both the employee and employer towards the Provident Fund, which is a retirement savings scheme.

PF Account Number Format

The PF (Provident Fund) Account Number follows a specific format, which typically looks like this:

XX/XXX/XXXXXXX

Here’s a breakdown of the format:

1. First two digits (XX): These represent the regional office code of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) that is handling your account. For example, “DL” stands for Delhi, “MH” for Maharashtra, etc.
2. Next three digits (XXX): These represent the establishment code. It identifies the specific company or organization to which the employee is registered.
3. Last seven digits (XXXXXXX): These represent the employee’s unique ID number within the company or establishment.

So, a full PF account number might look something like DL/12345/6789012, where:

• DL = Region (Delhi)
• 12345 = Establishment code
• 6789012 = Employee ID under the establishment

Note: The exact format may vary slightly depending on the region and the company’s registration, but this is the general structure followed by EPFO. offices.

How to Find PF Number: Step-by-Step Guide

To find your PF (Provident Fund) number, you can start by checking your salary slip, as most employers include the PF number there. Alternatively, you can log in to the UAN Member Portal using your Universal Account Number (UAN) and password. Once logged in, navigate to the “Service History” section under the “View” tab to see all your linked PF account details.

This is a great way to understand how to find PF number in UAN portal. If you’re still unable to locate your PF number, you can contact your employer’s HR department or reach out to the EPFO customer care helpline at 14470 for assistance. This number is unique for every employer and helps track your contributions to the Employee Provident Fund. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to find your PF number without including any links:

Step 1: Check Your Pay Slip

• Look for PF Details: Your Provident Fund (PF) number may be listed on your monthly pay slip under the “Deductions” or “Employee Benefits” section.
• Locate the PF Number: It may appear as “PF Number”, “EPF Number”, or “UAN Number”.

Step 2: Check Your UAN (Universal Account Number)

• Link Between UAN and PF Number: If you have activated your UAN, it is linked to your PF number.
• To Find Your PF Number:
  1. Log in to the EPFO Member Portal using your UAN and password.
  2. Once logged in, you can see the PF number linked with your UAN.

Step 3: Access Your EPF Passbook

• View Passbook: You can check your PF number by accessing your EPF passbook online.
• Steps to Access Passbook:
  1. Log in to the EPFO Member Portal with your UAN and password.
  2. After logging in, navigate to the “View Passbook” section.
  3. Your PF number will be displayed along with your PF balance.

Step 4: Check for Email or SMS Notifications

• SMS Alerts: If you’ve registered your mobile number with EPFO, you might receive SMS notifications whenever there’s a contribution to your PF account. These SMSs can contain your PF number.
• Email Notifications: Sometimes, EPFO sends email updates about your PF, which may include your PF number.

Step 5: Ask Your Employer’s HR Department

• If you cannot find your PF number via online methods, contact your HR or Payroll Department.
• They should have access to your PF number and can provide it to you.

Step 6: Use the EPFO Mobile App

• EPFO Mobile App: Download the EPFO mobile app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
• Steps to Use the App:
  1. Open the app and log in with your UAN and password.
  2. Once logged in, you can view your PF number along with other details.

Step 7: Visit the UAN Member Portal

• UAN Member Portal: If your UAN is activated, you can log in to the UAN Member Portal.
• Steps to Check PF Number:
  1. Log in with your UAN and password.
  2. After logging in, you will be able to see your PF number linked to the UAN.

Step 8: Use the “Find Your PF Number” Feature

• Use the available options to search for your PF number based on your UAN or other details.
• If you’re unable to find your PF number through other methods, you can search for it through the EPFO online services.

How to find pf number online

To find your PF Number (Provident Fund Number) online, you can follow these steps in India:

1. Using the EPFO Member Portal:

• Visit the EPFO Member Portal.
• Login with your UAN (Universal Account Number) and password.
• Once logged in, navigate to the “View” section and click on “Profile”.
• Here, you will see your EPF number listed under the “Member ID” section.

2. Using the EPFO UAN Portal:

• Go to the EPFO UAN Portal.
• Login with your UAN and password (if UAN is activated).
• After logging in, go to “View” and then “KYC” or “Profile” to find your EPF Number.

3. Via SMS (If UAN is Registered):

• You can also send an SMS to 7738299899 from your registered mobile number with the message:
  EPFOHO UAN ENG (where “ENG” is the language code, such as “ENG” for English).
• You will receive a message containing your UAN and EPF Number.

4. Using the EPFO Mobile App:

• Download and install the EPFO mobile app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
• Register using your UAN and access your EPF details, including the PF number.

5. Through Employer:

• You can also ask your employer’s HR or payroll department for your EPF Number.

By using these methods, you should be able to locate your PF Number and manage your EPF account efficiently.

Documents Required for PF Number

To obtain or find your PF number, certain documents and information are required depending on whether you are registering for a new PF account or accessing an existing one. Here are the documents typically required:

1. For New PF Registration (if you are an employee joining a new organization):

If you’re joining a new organization and your employer is registering you for a Provident Fund (PF) account, you will need the following documents:

• Aadhar Card: Your Aadhar card is essential as it is used to link your PF account for KYC (Know Your Customer) compliance.
• PAN Card: This is also required for tax purposes and to link your PF account.
• Passport-size Photograph: Typically, one or two passport-sized photographs are required.
• Bank Account Details: Bank account number and IFSC code, for crediting the employer’s contribution to your PF account.
• Employment Details: Information about your current employer, such as the company name and its PF registration number.

2. For Existing PF Account (to find or retrieve your PF number):

If you are looking to retrieve your PF number, the following documents might be needed:

• Aadhar Card: You need to ensure that your Aadhar card is linked with your UAN (Universal Account Number) for easy access to your PF details.
• UAN Number: If available, you will need your UAN to access or retrieve your PF details online through the EPFO portal.
• PAN Card (if available): Sometimes it may be needed for verification purposes.
• Bank Account Details (optional): In case you are filing a claim or requesting a transfer, having bank details may be necessary.

3. Documents to Verify PF Details (if you want to check or claim your PF):

If you’re trying to check or withdraw your PF, the following documents might be required:

• UAN Number: This is the most crucial document to access your PF details.
• Aadhar Card: Used for linking and verifying your identity.
• Bank Account Details: For the purpose of transferring PF balance or receiving a refund.
• Employment Details/Last Employment Certificate: If necessary for claims or to confirm your previous employer’s contribution.
• Passport-sized Photograph: If submitting a claim form.

Note:

• Make sure to keep all your documents handy while accessing or updating your PF account.
• You can also link your Aadhar number with your UAN through the EPFO portal for better management of your PF details.

For any queries or assistance in retrieving or managing your PF account, it is always a good idea to reach out to your employer or visit the official EPFO website.

Why is it Important to Know Your PF Account Number?

Knowing your PF (Provident Fund) account number is important for several reasons, as it helps in managing and accessing your Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) savings effectively. Here are some of the key reasons why it’s important to know your PF account number:

1. Tracking Your Contributions:

• Your PF account number allows you to track the contributions made to your EPF account by both you and your employer. This ensures that your EPF account is being funded regularly, and you can monitor the growth of your savings over time.

2. Checking Balance and Withdrawal:

• To check your EPF balance or make withdrawals, you need to know your PF account number. The EPFO allows employees to check their EPF balance online via the EPFO portal or through the UMANG app using the PF account number.
• Knowing your PF account number enables you to make quick and easy withdrawals when necessary, such as for retirement, medical emergencies, or other financial needs.

3. Transferring Your EPF Balance:

• If you change employers, knowing your PF account number allows you to transfer your EPF balance from your old account to your new account. The transfer process is usually done through the UAN (Universal Account Number), but you will need your PF account numbers from both the old and new employers to ensure a smooth transfer.

4. Linking to UAN:

• Your PF account number is linked to your UAN (Universal Account Number), which is crucial for managing your EPF account across multiple employers. Knowing your PF number helps you ensure that all your accounts are correctly linked to your UAN for easy access and management.

5. Claiming EPF Benefits:

• When you retire or leave your job, you can claim your EPF benefits, which include the accumulated contributions and interest. Your PF account number is necessary for filing a claim to withdraw the funds or transfer them to your new EPF account.

6. Ensuring Correct Employer Contributions:

• It’s essential to know your PF account number so you can verify that your employer is contributing the correct amount to your EPF account every month. If there are discrepancies, you can raise the issue with the EPFO and ensure your savings are intact.

7. Maintaining KYC for EPF:

• Knowing your PF account number helps with the KYC (Know Your Customer) process. EPFO requires employees to submit certain documents like Aadhaar, PAN, and bank details for KYC. Proper KYC ensures easy access to online services like checking balance, withdrawing, and transferring EPF funds.

8. Accessing EPF Services:

• Many services offered by the EPFO, such as online transfers, withdrawals, and balance checks, require knowledge of your PF account number. Without it, you might not be able to access these services or get information about your EPF account.

9. Preventing Misplacement of Contributions:

• If you have multiple EPF accounts (due to changing jobs), knowing your PF account number helps you identify and manage each account, preventing any funds from getting lost or overlooked. It also ensures that all accounts are correctly linked and tracked under your UAN.

10. Avoiding Fraud or Errors:

• By regularly checking your PF account number and contributions, you can detect any discrepancies or fraudulent activities early. Knowing your PF account number ensures that your contributions are correctly credited and helps you take necessary action if there are any errors.

Key Distinctions Between UAN and EPF Number

The UAN (Universal Account Number) and EPF (Employees’ Provident Fund) Number are two essential identifiers used in the Indian retirement savings system, but they serve different purposes and are distinct from one another. Here’s a breakdown of their key distinctions:

Feature	UAN (Universal Account Number)	EPF (Employees’ Provident Fund)
Issued by	EPFO	Employer
Purpose	To provide a single account for all EPF-related activities	Tracks EPF account with a specific employer
Changes with Jobs	No (remains the same across jobs)	Yes (changes with every employer)
Online Access	Full access via EPFO portal or UMANG app	Limited to the employer’s EPF account
Linking Accounts	Can link multiple EPF numbers to one UAN	No linkage across jobs
Primary Use	Simplifies EPF management across jobs	Tracks contributions for a specific employer

1. Definition:

• UAN (Universal Account Number):
  • A 12-digit number issued by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) to an employee.
  • The UAN is unique to each employee and is a permanent number that stays the same even if the employee changes jobs. It serves as a central account for all EPF accounts under an employee’s name.
• EPF Number:
  • A unique number assigned to an employee by the EPF department of the company they work for.
  • This number is tied to a specific employer and is used to track the employee’s EPF contributions with that particular employer.

2. Purpose:

• UAN:
  • Acts as a unified account number for employees, making it easier to access and manage all EPF accounts associated with different employers over time.
  • Helps in seamless transfer of EPF balances when switching jobs.
  • Allows employees to access their EPF account details online, including checking balance, withdrawals, and transfers.
• EPF Number:
  • Used to track the employee’s specific provident fund account with a particular employer.
  • Each time an employee changes employers, a new EPF number is assigned for that employer’s EPF account.

3. Issuance:

• UAN:
  • Issued by the EPFO for an individual employee. The number remains the same across all employers.
  • It is typically provided by the EPFO to employees after successful KYC (Know Your Customer) submission.
• EPF Number:
  • Issued by the employer or the EPF department of the company the employee is working for.
  • The number is specific to that employer’s EPF account for the employee.

4. Change Over Time:

• UAN:
  • Permanent number that does not change even if an employee changes employers.
  • The UAN will remain the same, ensuring continuity in the EPF accounts.
• EPF Number:
  • Changes every time an employee changes employers.
  • New EPF numbers are assigned for each new job.

5. Online Access:

• UAN:
  • Allows employees to manage their EPF account through the EPFO’s online portal or the UMANG app.
  • Employees can update KYC, transfer their EPF balance, and access various services related to their provident fund account.
• EPF Number:
  • Used only for tracking the specific EPF account with a given employer.
  • Can be used to check EPF details for that specific employer but does not provide the same broad set of online services as the UAN.

6. Usage for EPF Transfer:

• UAN:
  • UAN plays a crucial role in facilitating the EPF transfer process between different employers.
  • The employee can link multiple EPF numbers to a single UAN for easy tracking and management.
• EPF Number:
  • When an employee switches jobs, the old EPF number becomes inactive, and a new EPF number is issued for the new job.
  • The old EPF account can be transferred to the new one by linking the UAN.

What is EPFO Customer Care Number?

The primary customer care number for the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) is 1800 118 005. This toll-free helpline operates around the clock, allowing employees to seek assistance regarding their PF accounts, Universal Account Number (UAN), and various other inquiries.

Here are some important points about the EPFO customer care number:

• Toll-free contact: 1800 118 005.
• Accessible 24/7.
• Useful for inquiries related to PF accounts, UAN, claims, and additional services.
• EPFO also offers a multilingual toll-free helpline at 14470, available from 7 AM to 9 PM.
• Employees can send their questions via email to the EPFO helpdesk at employeefeedback@epfindia.gov.in
• EPFO services can also be accessed through the UMANG mobile app, with a missed call to 9718397183 for assistance.

EPFO Member Portal Services

EPFO offers a range of services designed to assist organizations and their employees in navigating various aspects of the fund. Here are some key services provided by EPFO:

1. Online Registration: Organizations can conveniently register their establishments via the EPFO portal.
2. UAN Generation: Employees can create their Universal Account Number (UAN) on the EPFO portal, enabling access to the UMANG application for streamlined PF-related information.
3. Online EPF Subscription: Organizations can process PF payments and subscriptions online, making the procedure more efficient.
4. Grievance Redressal: EPF members have the option to submit complaints regarding pension settlements, PF withdrawals, transfers, and more.
5. Online Claims Status and Passbook: EPF members can monitor the status of their claims and download their PF passbook using their UAN.
6. Missed Call and SMS Service: Users can retrieve PF account information, including balance and past contributions, by sending an SMS or making a missed call.
7. EPF Member Passbook: Members can download their EPF Passbook to review detailed transactions related to their contributions and withdrawals.
8. Pensioner’s Portal: Employees can find solutions to pension-related inquiries on the EPFO member portal.
9. One Employee, One EPF Account: EPF account holders can consolidate their PF accounts under a single UAN, even if they have worked for different organizations.
10. TRRN Query: Employees can verify the status of their PF challan payment using the Temporary Return Reference Number (TRRN).
11. Helpdesk: The EPFO member portal features a helpdesk for any PF-related questions employees may have.
12. ECR Portal: The Electronic Challan cum Return portal allows employees to register, create user IDs, and upload the ECR with digital signatures.
13. COC Application Form: Employees can complete the Certificate of Coverage (COC) application form through the EPFO website.

Conclusion

There are multiple ways to locate your Provident Fund (PF) number. One of the easiest methods is to look at your salary slip, as it typically contains the PF number. Another option is to access the EPFO portal by logging in with your Universal Account Number (UAN), which connects all your PF accounts.

You might also consider using the UMANG app or reaching out to your employer’s HR department for help. If these options don’t yield results, visiting the closest EPFO office with the required documents can assist you in obtaining your PF number.

Also Read:

• How to Withdraw Provident Fund Online: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Frequently Answered Questions (FAQs)