Millions of salaried employees across the country registered with the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation can now access critical retirement fund services straight from their smartphones. Subscribers are now able to utilize key EPFO facilities through the popular messaging platform WhatsApp. Union Minister for Labour and Employment Mansukh Mandaviya launched this WhatsApp-based service initiative on Sunday, aiming to deliver everyday conveniences directly to workers without requiring in-person visits to regional offices.
Key Facilities Accessible via WhatsApp
According to official details released by the Labour Ministry, subscribers of the Employees' Provident Fund can instantly track their account specifics through the verified WhatsApp channel. Members can readily inspect their accumulated PF balance, review and download their account passbook, and check details of their last 5 transactions. Furthermore, subscribers requiring assistance with the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PMVBRY) will receive personalized guidance and support to fulfill related procedural formalities directly within the chat interface.
How to Access the Messaging Service
The procedure to begin using this digital support channel is simple and direct. Subscribers must first save the official contact number 8796441800 on their mobile devices. Once the contact is saved, sending a message reading Hi on WhatsApp initiates the automated flow. Following the on-screen prompts allows users to select required services and retrieve their fund statements within seconds. This step drastically cuts down the necessity of visiting physical fund offices for mundane verification and balance checks.
Auto-Settlement Rolled Out for Dormant Accounts
Marking the occasion of the 74th Foundation Day celebrations of the retirement fund body, the Union Minister also announced an automated claim settlement mechanism for eligible dormant and inactive accounts. Under this rule, Aadhaar-verified holders of inactive accounts with balances of up to Rs 1000 will not need to submit separate physical or online claim applications to withdraw their money.
EPFO will automatically initiate settlements for these identified accounts once prescribed identity and bank account validations are verified. Through this measure, eligible beneficiaries will receive their long-pending dues directly in their bank accounts. It is estimated that approximately 1 lakh such accounts, holding a collective balance of Rs 5 crore, will benefit from this streamlined process, resolving thousands of minor pending accounts seamlessly.
Robust Trust Backed by Over 8 Crore Members
Addressing attendees at the foundation event, Mandaviya noted that throughout its 74-year journey, the organisation has established itself as an enduring and reliable pillar for India's workforce. The minister underscored that public trust in the institution is reflected in its vast accumulation of Rs 32 lakh crore in assets contributed by over 8 crore active members. He attributed this organizational success to the steadfast dedication, rigorous effort, and integrity demonstrated by the personnel managing the fund.
