EPFO Issues New Guidelines, Tightens Rules for Correcting EPF Account Details - Check

EPFO: A new set of standard operating procedure (SOP) guidelines has been issued by the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) to streamline the process of updating personal information in Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) accounts.

New SOP Version 3.0 for EPF Account Updates

On July 31, 2024, EPFO issued a circular announcing the approval of SOP Version 3.0 for joint declaration requests aimed at updating member profiles. This new SOP replaces the previous guidelines, emphasizing stronger due diligence by Field Offices to prevent identity theft or impersonation cases.

What is a Joint Declaration?

A joint declaration is a request made by employees to modify or add basic profile details, authenticated by their employer. These changes must be supported by necessary documents. The basic profile details include:

• Name
• Gender
• Date of Birth
• Father’s Name
• Mother’s Name
• Spouse's Name
• Marital Status
• Date of Joining
• Reason for Leaving
• Date of Leaving
• Nationality
• Aadhaar Number

Major and Minor Changes - Document Requirements

The EPFO circular categorizes profile changes into major and minor. Both types of changes require documentary proof.

At least two supporting documents must be included with the joint declaration request for minor modifications. Three supporting documents are required for significant modifications. An Aadhar card or E-Aadhar card linked to an active mobile phone is sufficient for Aadhar modifications.

How to Submit a Joint Declaration Request

EPF members can submit a joint declaration request for corrections via the Member e-Sewa portal. However, corrections can only be made for EPF accounts maintained by the current employer. Employers do not have modification rights for EPF accounts from previous establishments. There is also a limit on the number of times personal details can be changed.