EPFO Removes Aadhaar as Valid Proof of Date of Birth; Birth Certificate and Marksheet Required

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has announced a significant change in its documentation policies. In a circular issued on January 16, 2024, EPFO stated that Aadhaar is no longer considered a valid document for proof of date of birth (DoB). This decision is in alignment with the directives from the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) and is aimed at adhering to the Aadhaar Act of 2016, which does not recognize Aadhaar as a valid proof of date of birth. Henceforth, individuals will be required to submit their birth certificate or marksheets to establish their date of birth.

EPFO’s Decision and Directive from UIDAI

EPFO’s circular (No: WSU/2024/1/UIDAI Matter/4090) officially removes Aadhaar from the list of acceptable documents for proof of date of birth. This decision follows a directive from UIDAI, as outlined in Circular No. 08 of 2023. EPFO emphasizes that while Aadhaar serves as a unique identification proof, it is not considered a valid proof of date of birth according to the Aadhaar Act, 2016.

Valid Documents for Proof of Date of Birth

In light of the removal of Aadhaar, EPFO provides a list of acceptable documents to establish one’s date of birth. These include:

1. Birth Certificate issued by the Registrar of Births and Deaths
2. Marksheet issued by any recognized Government Board or University
3. School Leaving Certificate (SLC)/ School Transfer Certificate (TC)/ SSC certificate containing Name and Date of Birth
4. Certificate based on the service records
5. PAN card
6. Central/ State Pension Payment Order
7. Domicile Certificate issued by the Government

In cases where individuals do not possess any of the aforementioned documents, EPFO will accept a medical certificate issued by a Civil Surgeon after a thorough examination. This certificate must be supported by an affidavit on oath by the member, duly authenticated by a Competent Court.

Impact of Recent Court Judgments

Recent court judgments, including one from the Bombay High Court, have solidified the stance that Aadhaar cannot be accepted as evidence of birth. These decisions have significantly influenced EPFO’s choice to remove Aadhaar as a valid proof of date of birth. By aligning their policies with court rulings and the Aadhaar Act, EPFO aims to ensure accuracy and reliability in verifying date of birth information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why has EPFO removed Aadhaar as proof of date of birth? 

EPFO’s decision is in response to a directive from UIDAI, as Aadhaar is not considered a valid proof of date of birth according to the Aadhaar Act, 2016.

What documents can be submitted as proof of date of birth? 

Valid documents for proof of date of birth include birth certificates, marksheets, school leaving certificates, service records, PAN cards, pension payment orders, and government-issued domicile certificates.

Can a medical certificate be accepted as proof of date of birth? 

In cases where individuals do not possess any of the valid documents, EPFO will accept a medical certificate issued by a Civil Surgeon, supported by an affidavit on oath authenticated by a Competent Court.

How do recent court judgments influence EPFO’s decision? 

Recent court judgments, including one from the Bombay High Court, have established that Aadhaar cannot be accepted as evidence of birth. EPFO aligns its policies with these rulings to ensure accuracy and reliability in verifying date of birth information.

When will this change be implemented by EPFO? 

EPFO’s circular announcing the removal of Aadhaar as valid proof of date of birth was issued on January 16, 2024. Individuals are now required to submit alternative documents for establishing their date of birth.