How to Add Missing First Company Service History to PF and EPS in India
If you have ever transferred your PF and EPS account from EPFO to a trust and then back to EPFO, you may have noticed a gap in your service history for your first company. This can be a particular concern if you are planning to claim any benefits or seek employment.
Understanding the PF and EPS Transfer Process
When transferring your PF and EPS accounts, it is crucial to keep track of your records and ensure that all information is accurately captured. If your service history of the first company is missing, this can lead to unintended consequences. Here’s a detailed guide on how to add your first company's service history to your PF and EPS records:
Checking UAN Numbers for Different PF Accounts
The first step is to verify your UAN (Unique Account Number) for each PF account you have. Every PF account is assigned a unique UAN, and it is important to ensure that the correct UAN is associated with your current PF and EPS account. If the UAN numbers for the different PF accounts you have are different, you may need to address this discrepancy with the EPFO (Employees' Pension Fund Organisation).
Reinstating Missing Service History
To reinstatethe missing service history of your first company, you will need to follow these steps:
Fill out the necessary form provided by the EPFO. This form will include all the required details about your first company and the service history associated with it.
Seek certification from your first company. You will need to get the form signed by your previous employer to verify the information you provided. This process can take some time, so it is advisable to start this early.
Once you have obtained the certification, submit the completed form along with the signed documents to the EPFO. The EPFO will review your application and process it accordingly.
It is important to note that the EPFO retains your EPS records, and a trust can only manage your PF account. Therefore, even if the EPS information is lost, you should still have a copy of the EPS Annexure K, which will contain your service history.
What to Do if the EPS Info is Lost
If you have misplaced or lost your EPS Annexure K, it is still possible to add your first company service history. You can approach the EPFO and request a copy of the EPS Annexure K using the form you filled out. Ensure you have all the necessary documents to support your request.
Conclusion
Adding missing service history to your PF and EPS accounts in India is a straightforward but timely process. Keeping accurate records and following the steps outlined above can help you avoid any discrepancies in your service history. If you encounter any issues, it is always advisable to seek assistance from the EPFO or a local HR representative.