The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced a new WhatsApp-based service to make Provident Fund (PF) services easier and more accessible for millions of subscribers. With this facility, employees can check their PF balance, view their last five transactions and download their EPF passbook directly through WhatsApp.
Union Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced the initiative as part of the government’s efforts to improve digital access to EPFO services. The new facility aims to reduce the need for physical visits to EPFO offices and make routine services available through a familiar mobile application.
The announcement was made around the 74th Foundation Day of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation. Along with WhatsApp services, the initiative also includes automatic settlement of eligible inoperative EPF accounts.
What Is the New EPFO WhatsApp Service?
The EPFO WhatsApp service allows subscribers to access important PF account information through a simple chat. Instead of logging into the EPFO website or visiting an office for basic account-related services, users can send a WhatsApp message and follow the instructions.
According to the information shared by EPFO, subscribers can use the facility for three important services:
- Check their EPF account balance.
- View their last five PF transactions.
- Download their EPF passbook.
The service is expected to make it easier for employees to keep track of their retirement savings and check recent account activity.
How to Check PF Balance Through WhatsApp?
EPFO subscribers can access the service by following a few simple steps.
Step 1: Save the official EPFO WhatsApp number, 8796441800, on your mobile phone.
Step 2: Open WhatsApp and send a message saying “Hi” to 8796441800.
Step 3: After sending the message, follow the instructions received in the chat.
Step 4: Select your preferred language when the option appears.
Step 5: Choose the service you want to use, such as checking your PF balance, viewing recent transactions or downloading your passbook.
EPFO has also shared a QR code through its official social media account. Subscribers can scan this code to start a WhatsApp conversation with the organisation.
Multilingual Support and Digital Assistance
Another important feature of the new service is language selection. Subscribers can choose their preferred language while using the WhatsApp facility, making the service more accessible to people who are not comfortable using English.
The organisation also plans to provide personalised guidance and assistance for completing requirements related to the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PMVBRY).
The government expects this digital facility to make routine PF-related services more convenient and reduce the need for employees to visit EPFO offices for basic information.
Automatic Settlement of Inoperative EPF Accounts
Along with the WhatsApp facility, EPFO has introduced automatic settlement of eligible inoperative EPF accounts. This initiative is intended to help members whose old PF accounts have remained inactive.
The move could benefit employees who have changed jobs, left employment or have not accessed their previous PF accounts for a long period.
The automatic settlement process is expected to reduce paperwork and make eligible funds easier to access. However, the facility will apply according to the conditions and eligibility requirements set by EPFO.
What Should EPF Subscribers Keep in Mind?
The WhatsApp service offers a convenient way to access basic PF information without using multiple platforms. Subscribers should use the official EPFO contact number and follow the instructions provided through the verified service.
Users should also avoid sharing their OTPs, passwords, bank details or other sensitive information with unknown contacts.
With the introduction of WhatsApp-based services, EPFO is taking another step towards improving its digital services. The facility is expected to help employees access important PF information more easily while reducing the need for unnecessary office visits.
