RTI Shows Over 30 Lakh Inoperative EPF Accounts as Reforms Roll Out

An RTI request to the EPFO sought year‑wise details of inoperative accounts for the last six years. The agency replied that it only maintains records for 2025‑26, after establishing an Inoperative Accounts Cell (IAC) in that period. Data for earlier years were not provided.

The EPFO also refused to disclose information on Aadhaar‑linked dormant accounts or the status of auto‑settlement, citing exemptions under the RTI Act. This lack of transparency makes it harder for analysts and policymakers to gauge the full extent of the problem.

Even as the government introduces measures aimed at simplifying EPF processes, the RTI response highlights gaps in record‑keeping that could impede effective monitoring of unclaimed balances.