The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has announced new initiatives aimed at making Provident Fund services more accessible and convenient for millions of subscribers. On the occasion of its 74th Foundation Day on November 1, the organisation introduced plans for automatic settlement of eligible inactive PF accounts with balances of up to ₹1,000. It also announced the availability of EPFO services through WhatsApp.
These initiatives are designed to reduce paperwork, simplify the settlement of old PF accounts and provide members with easier access to important account-related information.
The programme was inaugurated by Union Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. According to a press release issued by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), several new initiatives were announced as part of the Foundation Day celebrations.
EPFO to Automatically Settle Inactive PF Accounts With Up to ₹1,000
One of the major announcements is the proposed automatic settlement of eligible inactive EPF accounts containing a balance of up to ₹1,000.
This facility is expected to help members who have small amounts deposited in old PF accounts that have remained unused for a long time. At present, members may need to follow a separate procedure to settle such accounts and withdraw their remaining balance.
Under the new initiative, eligible accounts will be processed automatically, reducing the need for members to complete lengthy settlement formalities.
However, the PIB announcement has not yet provided complete details about the eligibility requirements. The exact implementation date and procedure for automatic settlement have also not been clarified.
EPFO Services Available Through WhatsApp
EPFO is also expanding its digital services by introducing a verified WhatsApp-based facility for subscribers. The aim is to make routine PF-related services easier to access without requiring members to visit EPFO offices.
According to the government’s statement, subscribers will be able to use the verified WhatsApp service to check their PF balance, view their latest five transactions and access passbook information.
The service will also provide personalised guidance and assistance with completing requirements related to the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PMVBRY).
By offering these facilities through a familiar mobile messaging platform, EPFO aims to improve communication with members and make essential services more convenient.
Bhavishya Nidhi Awards 2026 Presented on Foundation Day
The 74th Foundation Day programme also featured the presentation of the Bhavishya Nidhi Awards 2026.
Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya recognised the contributions and outstanding performance of various EPFO regional offices, zonal offices, officers and employees.
During the event, the minister was also scheduled to visit exhibition stalls and release several publications. These publications focus on knowledge development, institutional learning, responsive governance and legal awareness.
How Will the New EPFO Initiatives Benefit PF Members?
The latest announcements are expected to make several PF-related processes simpler for eligible subscribers.
Automatic settlement of inactive accounts with balances of up to ₹1,000 could help members resolve old accounts without going through lengthy procedures. Meanwhile, WhatsApp-based services will provide another convenient way to check PF balances, review recent transactions and access passbook details.
The new digital facility is also expected to reduce the need for routine visits to EPFO offices by providing information and assistance through mobile phones.
However, complete information about the automatic settlement process, eligibility conditions, implementation schedule and WhatsApp service procedures is still awaited.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is based on the announcements and information provided in the source material. The implementation dates, eligibility conditions and availability of EPFO services may depend on official notifications and subsequent guidelines. Members should visit the official EPFO website or contact authorised EPFO offices for the latest updates before taking any action.