What is a PF Account Number and How to Find It?

29^th Oct 2025...

Key Takeaways

A PF account number is a unique Member ID assigned by the EPFO under each employer for tracking provident fund contributions.
PF differs from the Universal Account Number (UAN), which remains constant and links all PF accounts across employers.
You need the PF account number to verify contributions, transfer balances, download passbooks, or raise withdrawal and claim requests.
PF number can easily be found on your salary slip, through the EPFO Member Portal, UMANG app, or by contacting your employer’s HR department.
Each job generates a new PF account number under the same UAN, and all can be viewed in the EPFO service history section.
Before searching, ensure your Aadhaar, PAN, and mobile number are updated and linked for seamless access and verification.
Always use official EPFO portals or government apps to check PF details and avoid sharing login credentials on third-party websites.

If you have ever switched jobs, you might have wondered where your PF contributions are going or how to check your balance. Most salaried employees know that a portion of their salary goes into a Provident Fund (PF), but few can confidently say they know their PF account number or how to find it.

Your PF number is the key to accessing and managing your retirement savings. Understanding what it is and how to locate it helps you stay in control of your finances and ensure that every contribution made in your name is accounted for.

Also Read: Everything You Need to Know About EPF

Understanding What a PF Account Number Means

The PF account number is a unique Member ID assigned to you by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) under your employer. It represents your individual account for that employment. Whenever you change jobs, your employer creates a new Member ID for you.

This Member ID is linked to your Universal Account Number (UAN), which remains the same throughout your working life. The UAN acts as an umbrella that connects all your PF accounts from different employers, making it easier to track and manage your savings.

In simple terms:

The PF account number identifies your PF contributions for one employer.
The UAN connects all your PF accounts and gives you a single access point to view and manage them.

Knowing both is essential for monitoring your contributions, downloading your passbook, or initiating a transfer when you move to a new job.

Why You May Need Your PF Account Number

Your PF account number comes in handy for more than just balance checks. It is needed when you:

Verify your PF contributions with your employer
Access your PF passbook to check monthly deposits
Transfer your balance from an old employer to your current one
Raise a query or claim through the EPFO portal
Track the progress of your withdrawal or transfer request

Keeping this number accessible ensures that your retirement savings remain traceable and secure throughout your career.

Simple Ways to Find Your PF Account Number

There is no single way to find your PF account number, which means you can choose what suits you best. Here are the easiest options to try.

Check Your Salary Slip

The simplest method is to check your salary slip. Most employers mention your PF account number or Member ID alongside statutory deductions. If you have your payslips from your current or previous company, look for terms like EPF, PF Number, or Member ID.

If it is not mentioned, reach out to your HR or payroll department and request your PF account details. Since employers are responsible for contributing to your PF, they will have the information readily available.

Visit the EPFO Member Portal

If you know your UAN, you can log in to the EPFO Member Portal to view your PF details. Once logged in:

Go to the ‘View’ section and select ‘Service History’
You will see a list of your employers and the Member IDs linked to each

The Member ID displayed is your PF account number for that specific job. If you do not remember your UAN, you can recover it through the ‘Know Your UAN’ option on the same website using your Aadhaar, PAN, or registered mobile number.

Also Read: What is EPFO and How Does it Work

Use the UMANG App

The UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-Age Governance) app provides convenient access to EPFO services on your smartphone.
After logging in with your UAN:

Select EPFO services
Tap on ‘View Passbook’ or ‘Service History’
Your PF account number will be visible along with employer names and contribution details.

This option works best if you prefer mobile-first access and want to check details on the go.

Reach Out to Your Employer’s HR Department

If you no longer have access to your old company’s portal or salary slips, your HR department is the right place to ask. They can provide your Member ID and confirm your employment period in the EPFO system.

This is especially useful if you worked with an organisation several years ago or changed your registered mobile number.

When You Have Multiple PF Accounts

Each job you take creates a new PF account under your UAN. So, if you have changed employers a few times, you may have multiple Member IDs. This is completely normal.
To view them all:

Log in to your EPFO Member Portal
Open ‘Service History’
Note all your Member IDs under different employers

You can then transfer your old balances into your current active PF account. Before starting the transfer, make sure your Aadhaar, PAN, and bank details are verified and updated in the EPFO system. This will help avoid delays or rejections.

Common Issues People Face

While finding your PF account number is straightforward, you might encounter a few common problems. Here’s how to handle them.

UAN not activated: Without activating your UAN, you cannot access your PF details online. Visit the EPFO portal to activate it using your Aadhaar and mobile number.
Changed mobile number: If your registered mobile number is inactive, update your KYC details before using services like SMS or missed calls.
Payslips missing: Contact your HR or use the EPFO portal to retrieve your PF number.
Incorrect details: Check your name, date of birth, and Aadhaar on the portal. Incorrect details can cause issues during transfers or withdrawals.

Once these details are updated, managing your PF becomes much easier.

Quick Checklist Before You Start

Before looking for your PF number, keep these ready:

Your UAN or the details to recover it
Aadhaar and PAN information for verification
Access to your registered mobile number
A copy of your recent payslip
Optional: The UMANG app installed on your phone

Having these handy ensures a smooth experience while searching for your PF details.

A Note on Security

Always use only official EPFO portals or government apps such as UMANG to check your PF account information. Never share your login credentials or OTPs with anyone claiming to assist you. Avoid entering your details on third-party websites that are not verified by EPFO.

It is equally important to keep your KYC details accurate and up to date. This helps prevent misuse and ensures faster claim processing when you withdraw or transfer your funds.

In Closing

Your PF account number is more than just a string of digits. It is the key to managing your retirement savings confidently and ensuring your hard-earned money continues to grow safely under the EPFO system. With the right awareness, you can access your details within minutes and take control of your financial future.

If you are looking for a convenient way to manage your everyday banking and savings, a Kotak 811 Digital Savings Account can make your financial planning even easier. With zero balance requirements, simple onboarding, and seamless access through the app, it’s designed to fit your lifestyle while keeping your money within reach.

Stay informed, stay secure, and take the small steps that lead to long-term financial stability. It all begins with knowing your PF account number and keeping your retirement savings on track.

FAQs

1. Is the PF account number the same as the UAN?

No. UAN is permanent and unique to you. The PF account number is employer-specific and appears as your Member ID in the EPFO system.

2. Can I find the PF account number without logging in?

Yes, check your payslip or ask HR. To verify activity quickly, use the SMS or missed call services linked to your UAN.

3. What if my number is not linked to UAN?

Update KYC on the EPFO portal or UMANG, then try sending an SMS or a missed call again.