Aadhaar seeding mandatory against UAN with effect from 01.06.2021, time extended up to 1.09.2021 for the same

The EPFO had issued an office order for the field staff on June 1, stating that the ECR shall only be allowed to be filed for those members whose Aadhaar numbers are seeded and verified with the UAN from June 1, 2021. Circular enclosed.

The EPFO decided to make Aadhaar seeding compulsory following a labor ministry notification on May 3, which mandated the ministry and its affiliated bodies to collect Aadhaar numbers from beneficiaries under the Social Security Code. A notification was issued by the labor ministry on May 3, mandating the ministry and its affiliated bodies to collect Aadhaar numbers from beneficiaries under the Social Security Code.

In a significant relief to employers, the Employee Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) extended the deadline to seed the Aadhaar number with the universal account number (UAN) for filing electronic challan-cum-returns (ECR) to September 1, 2021. Circular enclosed.

Aadhaar Seeding Compliance Deadline Extension

⏰ Deadline Extension: The Employee Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has extended the deadline for Aadhaar seeding with the Universal Account Number (UAN) for filing Electronic Challan-cum-Returns (ECR) to September 1, 2021. This extension provides employers with additional time to ensure compliance with the new mandate.

🔍 Background: The decision to make Aadhaar seeding mandatory stems from a labor ministry notification issued on May 3, requiring the collection of Aadhaar numbers from beneficiaries under the Social Security Code. Consequently, the EPFO issued an office order on June 1, specifying that ECR filing is restricted to members whose Aadhaar numbers are linked and verified with the UAN.

📝 Action Steps:

1. Ensure Aadhaar Seeding: Employers must promptly verify and link Aadhaar numbers with the UAN for all employees eligible for EPF benefits.

2. Compliance Check: Regularly monitor the Aadhaar seeding status for employees to ensure all records are up to date.

3. Communication: Inform employees about the importance of Aadhaar seeding for EPF compliance and provide necessary assistance for the process.

4. Document Verification: Maintain accurate records of Aadhaar seeding activities to demonstrate compliance during audits or inspections.

5. Timely Action: Utilize the extended deadline effectively to complete the Aadhaar seeding process for all eligible employees before the revised due date.

🔗 For further details, refer to the circulars issued by the EPFO and the labor ministry to stay updated on any additional requirements or changes in the Aadhaar seeding process.

This guidance aims to assist employers in meeting the revised deadline for Aadhaar seeding, ensuring seamless ECR filing and compliance with EPF regulations.