EPFO: EPFO WhatsApp service launched, flooded with complaints..
The Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) recently launched a WhatsApp service for its 80 million (8 crore) members. Through this, employees can check their PF balance, view their last five transactions, and download their passbook—all from the comfort of their homes. However, users are now taking to social media to express their grievances regarding this new facility. Many report significant delays in receiving responses after sending a message on WhatsApp, and note that selecting options from the menu fails to provide the requested information.
The EPFO introduced this official WhatsApp service to simplify access to essential PF-related services. To use it, members must send a 'Hi' message to the EPFO’s official WhatsApp number, 8796441800, after which the process can be completed via a chatbot. Since the service's launch, however, many users have encountered difficulties in using it.
**Long delays in receiving responses**
According to some users, after sending 'Hi' to the WhatsApp number, they are first prompted to select a language. Once a language is chosen, the chatbot offers options such as checking the PF balance, viewing the last five transactions, or downloading a passbook. Yet, selecting any of these options results in an error message instead of the requested information.
Several users have shared screenshots showing that, despite repeated attempts, they receive the message: "We couldn't complete that. Something went wrong. Please try again after some time." This indicates that the system is currently unable to fulfill their requests.
**No resolution despite multiple attempts**
Many individuals have shared their frustrations on social media. Some users reported trying all the available options multiple times, only to encounter the same error each time. Others have complained that it takes a long time to receive even an initial response. In some instances, the chatbot fails to proceed with the requested task after an option is selected. Some argue that since the EPFO has launched this facility, it ought to function properly. Users have urged the EPFO to promptly resolve the technical glitches and ensure the service operates as intended.
What is the purpose of the EPFO’s WhatsApp service?
The objective behind this initiative is to spare PF members from having to visit the EPFO portal or physical offices for routine, minor inquiries. Through WhatsApp, members can access their PF balance, view their last five transactions, and check their passbook details. Furthermore, the service is intended to assist members with the necessary procedures related to the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PMVBRY).
As of November 2, no clear official response has been issued by the EPFO regarding the reported issues. In the meantime, members unable to access information via the WhatsApp service can check their PF balance and passbook through the official EPFO member portal or the UMANG app.
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