EPFO New Rule: Changes To Cheque Leaf And Bank Passbook Uploads Announced. Check Details

EPFO New Rule: The Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has announced a major change in the requirements for uploading images of validated bank passbooks or cheque leaves when filing certain claims online. These updated procedures target to simplify and expedite the online claim submission process. For the latest information, members can visit the official EPFO website. This update aims to streamline the process and reduce claim rejections.

Enhanced Verification Methods

To ensure the accuracy of claims, the EPFO will employ additional verification techniques, including:

Online Bank KYC Verification: The EPFO will directly verify bank details through the concerned bank or the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

Employer Verification via DSC: Employers can validate bank account details using a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).

Seeded Aadhaar Verification: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) will verify the Aadhaar number linked to the bank account.

These measures are expected to expedite the claim settlement process and minimise rejections due to the non-submission of the attested bank passbook or cheque leaf images.

Official Circular and Eligibility Criteria

According to the EPFO circular dated May 28, 2024, "With a view to facilitate the speedy settlement of claims filed online and to reduce the rejection of claims due to the reason of non-uploading of the image of cheque leaf/ attested bank passbook while filing claims online, it has been decided with the approval of the CPFC to relax the requirement of mandatory uploading of the image of cheque leaf/ attested bank passbook for certain eligible cases based on certain validations which include Online Verification of the Bank KYC by concerned Bank/NPCI, Verification of Bank KYC by the employer using DSC, Seeded Aadhaar Number verified by UIDAI among others."

Eligibility and Documentation Requirements

While the EPFO did not specify detailed eligibility requirements, the relaxation is likely applicable in scenarios where:

Bank details have been verified through KYC or other methods.

The claim amount is below a certain threshold.

For EPF claims, the ideal supporting document is an original cancelled cheque with the member's name, bank account number, and IFSC code. Alternatively, a bank passbook’s first page, duly authenticated by the bank manager, can be used if the account lacks cheque book functionality.

Online Claim Submission Process

Members can file claims through the EPFO member portal. Here's a general guideline:

Eligibility: Ensure you have a valid Universal Account Number (UAN) and are a registered member. Your Aadhaar number and bank account number, along with other KYC details, must be seeded and validated in your UAN account.

Filing the Claim

Visit the EPFO member portal at EPFO Member Portal and log in with your UAN and password.

Navigate to the 'Claim' section and select the type of claim (e.g., pension, full settlement).

Verify the pre-filled KYC information and update any discrepancies.

Depending on the situation and recent relaxations, online verification methods may replace the need for document uploads.

In some cases, you may still need to upload scanned copies of documents such as a cancelled cheque or an attested bank passbook.

After checking and validating the information, submit the claim.

Tracking and Assistance: Monitor the progress of your claim through the portal and keep a copy for future reference. For any issues, contact the EPFO helpdesk.

ALSO READ | How To Get An International Driving Licence In India. Everything You Need To Know