In a remarkable achievement, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has reached a milestone by settling 2.16 crore auto-claims during this financial year, a significant increase from 89.52 lakh claims processed in the previous year. Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Shobha Karandlaje, shared this impressive statistic in a recent session of the Lok Sabha, highlighting the organization’s commitment to improving efficiency and accessibility for members.
Streamlined Claim Processing
The EPFO has made notable advancements in the claims settlement process, particularly through its automated systems. Claims submitted in auto mode are settled within a swift three-day timeframe, enhancing the experience for users. This transformation is part of a broader initiative to modernize the claims process.
- The limit for auto-mode advance claims has been increased to ₹1 lakh.
- Advances are now available for various purposes, including housing, education, and marriage, in addition to medical emergency claims.
- Currently, 60% of advance claims are processed automatically.
Simplifying Member Interactions
In a bid to further simplify member interactions, the EPFO has revamped its member details correction process. Members with Aadhaar-verified Universal Account Numbers (UANs) can now make necessary corrections independently, eliminating the need for intervention from EPFO offices. As a result, an impressive 96% of corrections are now completed without office support.
Embracing Digital Innovation
The transition to digital has been remarkable, with 99.31% of claims being submitted online. This shift not only reduces the burden on physical offices but also enhances convenience for members. As of March 6, 2025, a staggering 7.14 crore claims were filed through online platforms.
- The requirement for employer attestation on Aadhaar-verified UANs for transfer claims has been minimized, with only 10% of claims needing such verification now.
Addressing Fraudulent Linkages
To safeguard members from potential fraud, the EPFO has introduced de-linking facilities for accounts that may have been incorrectly linked. Since the launch of this service on January 18, 2025, over 55,000 members have successfully de-linked their accounts.
Conclusion
With these strategic enhancements, the EPFO is setting a new standard for efficiency in claim settlements. By focusing on automation and user autonomy, the organization is not only improving service quality but also ensuring that members have a seamless experience with their provident fund accounts. The ongoing efforts reflect the government’s commitment to empowering employees through better financial management and transparency.
