Provident Fund Mistake: How Can I Recover 4.5 Years of Miscredited Funds?

I am working with a reputed MNC company. I observed that for the last 4.5 years, my provident fund (PF) is being credited to another company's ex-employee. This is entirely the HR department's fault, as they entered the wrong PF number while processing my PF. I noticed that a different PF number is reflected on my payslip. I brought this to the attention of HR, but they insisted that it is also my PF number. However, upon verifying with an expert, it was confirmed that the PF number does not belong to me. Now, please advise me on how I can retrieve the amount accumulated over the past 4.5 years, along with any accrued interest.

Thank you.

Firstly, these mistakes should have been averted in the beginning itself by the HR team. Since two years, UANs have been active, and the UAN is created upon submission of ID proofs; as such, this should have come to light then.

The available option now is that your HR needs to give a written request on the case to the EPF department to correct the details in the records and get the amount into your account.

Sir,

Is it right to lodge a complaint against HR? I am doubtful about regaining my PF amount with interest. If so, where should I have to lodge a complaint? Please advise.

You can record your grievance in the company's grievance cell or committee if you have any. Otherwise, report it to his boss.

Thank you, sir.

I have one query. Is it right to lodge a complaint in the regional PF Commissioner (RPFC) office? Please advise.

Yes, you can bring this to the notice of RPFC, as ultimately it is only the RPFC which will have to help in rectifying the gross mistake.

Dear Atuwadekar,

What were you doing all these years? As an employee, is it not your duty to download EPF Passbook and inform about discrepancies to your employer in writing? The PF Office has nothing to do with your particular case. Without wasting time, take up the matter with your employer in writing with documentary evidence. Can you upload your latest pass sheet?

Thank you.