EPFO launches WhatsApp service and automatic PF settlements

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation launched a WhatsApp service for subscribers and an automatic settlement process for eligible small inactive accounts at its 74th Foundation Day event on November 1 in New Delhi. The WhatsApp service lets members check their provident fund balance, view passbook details and review their five latest transactions through EPFO’s verified account. It also offers personalised guidance and assistance on requirements related to the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, according to the Labour Ministry. The ministry said the service is intended to make routine account information accessible on a familiar mobile platform and reduce the need for visits to EPFO offices. The launch announcement did not provide an official WhatsApp number or step-by-step instructions for starting a session. Members should rely on contact information published through EPFO’s official channels rather than assume earlier proposed instructions apply to the new service. Alongside the digital service, EPFO announced automatic settlement for inoperative accounts with balances of up to ₹1,000. The process applies to accounts verified through Aadhaar, and EPFO says it...