Key Takeaways
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Reform Announced By | Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Labour & Employment |
| Organisation | Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) |
| Passbook Lite | New simplified PF passbook on Member Portal for easy access via single login |
| Annexure K | Transfer Certificate now downloadable online directly by members |
| Approval Reform | Fewer approval layers, powers delegated to lower officers for faster settlements |
| Benefits | Faster claim processing, more transparency, reduced grievances, improved member satisfaction |
Source: PIB
Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, unveiled a set of reforms by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) aimed at providing efficient, transparent, and user-friendly services to members.
Key Announcements:
- ‘Passbook Lite’ on Member Portal for Easy PF Access
Members can now check their Provident Fund contributions, withdrawals, and balance directly through a simplified ‘Passbook Lite’ feature available on the EPFO Member Portal. Earlier, members had to log in separately to the Passbook Portal. The new feature integrates key services into one login, reducing technical load and enhancing convenience.- The existing Passbook Portal will remain available for those seeking a more detailed or graphical view of their PF account.
- Online Access to Annexure K (PF Transfer Certificate)
Members changing jobs can now directly download Annexure K (Transfer Certificate) in PDF format from the Member Portal, instead of relying on PF offices. This reform will:- Ensure full transparency in PF transfers,
- Confirm that balances and service periods are correctly updated,
- Provide a permanent digital record for EPS calculations, and
- Build greater trust and ease of access for members.
- Rationalised Approval Process for Faster Claim Settlements
EPFO has simplified the multi-layered approval system for PF transfers, settlements, advances, refunds, and related services.- Powers earlier reserved for RPFC/Officer-in-Charge have been delegated to Assistant PF Commissioners and subordinate officers in a structured manner.
- This step will lead to faster settlements, reduced delays, better accountability, and improved transparency for members.
Dr. Mandaviya emphasised that these reforms are part of EPFO’s broader push to reduce grievances, enhance member satisfaction, and simplify processes through digitisation and decentralisation.
Author
FAQs
What is ‘Passbook Lite’ introduced by EPFO?
Passbook Lite is a simplified PF account view available directly in the EPFO Member Portal, showing contributions, withdrawals, and balance without logging into the separate Passbook Portal.
Can members still use the old Passbook Portal?
Yes. The existing Passbook Portal will remain available for members who want a detailed view with graphical displays.
What is Annexure K and how can members access it now?
Annexure K is a Transfer Certificate generated during PF transfers. Members can now download it directly in PDF format from the Member Portal, ensuring transparency and digital record-keeping.
How has EPFO changed the approval process for claims?
Approval powers have been delegated from senior officers (RPFC/Officer-in-Charge) to Assistant PF Commissioners and subordinates, reducing layers and speeding up claim settlements.
What benefits will these reforms bring to EPFO members?
Members can expect faster claim settlements, transparent PF transfers, reduced grievances, easier access to PF details, and improved user satisfaction.
