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In a significant update for salaried employees and beneficiaries under the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has once again extended the deadline for UAN activation and Aadhaar-bank account linking. The new deadline is now set for June 30, 2025.

This extension brings relief to thousands of employees who are yet to activate their Universal Account Number (UAN) or link their Aadhaar with their bank accounts — both mandatory steps to receive benefits under the government’s ambitious ELI scheme.

What Is the ELI Scheme?

The Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme is part of the central government’s broader mission to generate over 2 crore jobs within two years. Announced in the Union Budget 2024-25, the ELI is one of three incentive programs under a ₹2 lakh crore package designed to provide employment, skills, and other opportunities to over 4.1 crore Indian youth in the next five years.

The scheme aligns with the government’s focus on youth empowerment and aims to boost job creation across various sectors, especially for fresh graduates, first-time job seekers, and individuals from economically weaker backgrounds.

Why UAN Activation and Aadhaar Linking Matter

To avail of benefits under the ELI scheme, beneficiaries must have their UAN activated and their Aadhaar number linked to their bank account. Failure to complete either step may lead to ineligibility for incentives or delays in disbursal.

Benefits of UAN Activation:

• Access to EPFO’s online services, including balance check, e-passbook, and online claims.

• Ability to transfer funds between old and new PF accounts when switching jobs.

• Option to withdraw funds online in times of emergency.

• Centralized tracking of multiple PF accounts under one UAN.

Importance of Aadhaar-Bank Linking:

• Ensures direct transfer of incentives into the employee’s bank account.

• Enhances transparency and reduces fraud or duplication in disbursal.

• Mandatory for smooth integration with various government schemes.

UAN Activation Deadline Extended — Again

Originally, the deadline for UAN activation and Aadhaar seeding with bank accounts was November 30, 2024. However, due to low compliance and feedback from various stakeholders, EPFO extended the deadline multiple times. The latest and final extension, as per an official circular, sets the new deadline as June 30, 2025.

The extension is expected to give more time to employers and employees alike, ensuring wider coverage and better participation in the ELI scheme.

How to Activate Your UAN Online

EPFO members can easily activate their UAN online by following these steps:

1. Visit the EPFO Member Services Portal.

2. Under the ‘Important Links’ section, click on ‘Activate UAN’.

3. Enter required details: UAN, Aadhaar number, date of birth, and registered mobile number.

4. You will receive an OTP on your mobile — enter it to complete the verification.

5. Once verified, your UAN will be successfully activated.

Key Takeaways:

• Deadline extended to June 30, 2025 for UAN activation and Aadhaar-bank account linking.

• Mandatory for receiving benefits under the ELI scheme.

• Scheme aims to create over 2 crore jobs within two years.

• Activate UAN and link Aadhaar to bank accounts via EPFO portal to avoid missing out on incentives.

Final Thoughts

The government’s push to digitize and streamline employment-related incentives is a step towards financial inclusion and improved transparency. With the extended deadline, employees now have a crucial window to complete the necessary formalities and secure their benefits under the ELI scheme.

If you’re a salaried employee or an employer, ensure that UAN activation and Aadhaar linking are completed on time. Not only will this make you eligible for incentives, but it will also grant you access to a host of digital EPFO services that simplify financial management and retirement planning.