EPF Glossary
Plain-English definitions for the terms you'll encounter across the EPF process.
UAN (Universal Account Number)
A single, permanent 12-digit number that links all of a member's EPF accounts across different employers over their career.
EPS (Employees' Pension Scheme)
A pension scheme funded from part of the employer's EPF contribution, providing a monthly pension after eligible service.
EDLI (Employees' Deposit Linked Insurance)
A life insurance benefit linked to EPF membership, paid to the nominee in case of a member's death while in service.
ECR (Electronic Challan-cum-Return)
The monthly online filing employers submit declaring employee wages and EPF contributions, followed by payment.
KYC Seeding
Linking a member's Aadhaar, PAN, and bank account to their UAN so that claims can be processed digitally.
Composite Claim Form
A single form that combines final settlement, pension withdrawal, and advance withdrawal into one online submission.
Pensionable Salary
The average monthly basic salary (capped at the EPS wage ceiling) used to calculate EPS pension.
Inoperative Account
An EPF account with no contributions for 3 continuous years where the member hasn't claimed the balance; it still earns interest until retirement age.
Establishment Code
A unique identifier issued to a registered employer, used on all EPF filings for that establishment.
EPFiGMS
EPFO's official online grievance portal for filing and tracking complaints against employers or EPFO offices.