Streamlining EPFO Claims: Removal of Mandatory Cheque or Bank Passbook Upload

In a significant move to enhance efficiency and reduce rejection rates, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) has introduced a new policy that removes the mandatory requirement to upload images of cheque leaves or attested bank passbooks for certain eligible claims. This update, effective from May 9, 2024, aims to streamline the claim settlement process, making it faster and more user-friendly.

Why This Change?

The primary reason behind this policy change is to expedite the online claim settlement process and reduce the number of rejections due to missing cheque leaf or bank passbook uploads. By leveraging advanced verification methods, the EPFO is ensuring that claims can be processed smoothly without unnecessary delays.

Key Highlights of the New Policy

1. Enhanced Verification Methods:
   • Online Bank KYC Verification: The bank KYC will be verified online by the concerned bank or the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
   • Employer Verification with DSC: Employers will verify the bank KYC using Digital Signature Certificates (DSC).
   • Aadhaar Number Verification: The Aadhaar number linked to the account will be verified by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).
2. Notification in Claim PDF: For eligible claims, a specific message will be displayed in the PDF of the claim stating: “The bank KYC has been online verified by bank and has been digitally signed by the employer for this case among other validations and therefore, mandatory uploading of the image of cheque leaf/attested bank passbook is not required.”
3. Color-Coded Claims: To facilitate easy identification, claims eligible for this relaxation will soon be color-coded. This will help the Dealing Hands quickly recognize these claims and avoid any inadvertent returns due to the non-uploading of the required documents.
4. Implementation and Notifications: This new feature was implemented in the Field Office application on May 9, 2024, and notifications were sent to all Zonal Offices on May 13, 2024.

Benefits for EPFO Members

• Faster Claim Processing: With the removal of the mandatory upload requirement, claims can be processed more swiftly, ensuring members receive their funds without unnecessary delays.
• Reduced Rejection Rates: The advanced verification processes significantly lower the chances of claims being rejected due to missing documents.
• Convenience: Members no longer need to worry about scanning and uploading cheque leaves or bank passbooks, simplifying the overall claim submission process.

Conclusion

The EPFO’s decision to remove the mandatory upload requirement for cheque leaves or attested bank passbooks marks a significant step towards modernizing and streamlining the claim settlement process. By adopting advanced verification methods and reducing documentation hurdles, the EPFO is making it easier for its members to access their funds quickly and efficiently.

For more information on this update and other EPFO services, visit the official EPFO website and stay informed about the latest developments in provident fund management.