EPFO Launches Passbook Lite for Quicker Claims, Real-Time Tracking & Simplified PF Access.

On September 18-19, 2025, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) rolled out a new feature called Passbook Lite, along with other reforms like downloadable Annexure K and delegated approval powers, aimed at making PF (Provident Fund) account management faster, more transparent, and more convenient for over 70 million subscribers.

      - Members can now view a simplified, summary version of their PF passbook (contributions, withdrawals, and balance) directly within the EPFO Member Portal under one login. No need to use a separate passbook portal for basic info.

      - The Transfer Certificate (Annexure K), previously exchanged only between PF offices and given to members only on request, is now downloadable in PDF format from the member portal. Members can also track the status of PF transfer applications and verify that balances and service periods are correctly updated.

Main Point :-   (I) Approval authority for PF transfers, settlements, refunds, advances, etc., has been moved from higher-officer levels (such as Regional PF Commissioners) down to Assistant PF Commissioners and other subordinate officers. This aims to cut down delays in claims processing significantly.

      (ii) The reforms ensure real-time tracking of applications (transfers, claims), permanent digital records for PF service periods and balances, which is crucial for calculating pension benefits under Employee Pension Scheme (EPS). Also, greater transparency is expected to reduce grievances.

(iii) By integrating Passbook Lite within the main EPFO member portal and avoiding separate passbook logins for summary info, EPFO aims to reduce server load and streamline access. The detailed passbook portal remains accessible for those who need full breakdowns (graphs, transaction history).