The EPFO WhatsApp service lets subscribers check their EPF balance, see their last five transactions and download their passbook by sending a message. It was announced on the 74th Foundation Day of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation, along with a second change: automatic settlement of small inoperative EPF accounts.
Quick answer
- What it does: shows your EPF balance, last five transactions and passbook on WhatsApp.
- How to start: scan the QR code in EPFO’s official social media post, then pick your language.
- Also new: inoperative accounts with balances up to Rs 1,000 will be settled without a claim.
- Average claim settlement time fell to 2.57 days in October 2026.
What the EPFO WhatsApp service offers
Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, who also chairs the Central Board of Trustees of EPF, announced the two services, as reported by The Economic Times. Through EPFO’s verified WhatsApp account, subscribers can see their balance, recent transactions and passbook details.
The service will also give personalised help with PMVBRY related requirements. In short, the aim is to handle routine questions on a familiar app, so people need fewer visits to EPFO offices.
How to use the EPFO WhatsApp service
EPFO says subscribers can scan the QR code shared in its social media post. After that, you can choose your preferred language for messages. Then the main options are:
- Check EPF balance.
- See your last five EPF transactions.
- Download your EPF passbook.
Use only the QR code or number from EPFO’s own channels or the official EPFO website. Fake accounts often copy popular government services, so never share an OTP or bank details in a chat. If something goes wrong, our guide to the cyber fraud golden hour explains what to do fast.
Automatic settlement of small inoperative accounts
The second service targets old, forgotten accounts. Subscribers with Aadhaar verified inoperative EPF accounts holding up to Rs 1,000 will not need to file a claim. Instead, EPFO will start the settlement itself after checking identity and bank account details, and then transfer the money to the rightful owner.
About one lakh accounts with roughly Rs 5 crore in total are expected to benefit, the Minister said. He also noted that the average claim settlement time dropped to 2.57 days in October 2026.
What is an inoperative EPF account
An account becomes inoperative when no contributions come in for three years after retirement, after permanent migration abroad, or after the member’s death.
Does an inoperative account earn interest
No. However, at present all accounts earn interest until the member turns 58.
What to do if your account is inoperative
If you still work at an establishment covered by the EPF and MP Act, 1952, you can move the money into your new EPF account, online or offline. If you have retired, you can withdraw the amount instead. So it is worth checking old accounts now rather than leaving money idle.
FAQ
How do I check my EPF balance on WhatsApp?
Scan the QR code in EPFO’s official social media post, choose your language, then pick the balance option. You can also see your last five transactions.
Can I download my EPF passbook on WhatsApp?
Yes. Downloading the passbook is one of the options in the EPFO WhatsApp service.
Who gets automatic settlement of an inoperative account?
Members with Aadhaar verified inoperative accounts holding up to Rs 1,000. EPFO settles these after identity and bank checks, so no claim is needed.
