What is ESIC Number and How to Find It?

The Employees' State Insurance Corporation, commonly known as ESIC, plays a vital role in safeguarding the health and financial well-being of workers across India. For many employees, navigating social security schemes can feel overwhelming, but understanding key elements like the ESIC number simplifies access to essential benefits. This number serves as a gateway to medical care, cash allowances, and other protections designed to support you during times of need. Whether you're new to the workforce or reviewing your entitlements, grasping what is ESIC number and how it functions is crucial for making the most of this scheme.

Understanding the Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC)

ESIC is a statutory body under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India, established to provide comprehensive social security to employees in the organised sector. It operates under the Employees' State Insurance Act, 1948, and aims to protect workers from health-related contingencies that could impact their earning capacity.

The scheme originated in the post-independence era to address the vulnerabilities faced by industrial workers. Its primary purpose is to offer a safety net through integrated benefits, including medical treatment and financial aid. Over the years, ESIC has expanded its reach, covering more sectors and enhancing service delivery through a network of hospitals, dispensaries, and online portals. This evolution ensures that employees receive timely support, reducing the burden of unexpected medical expenses.

Eligibility Criteria for ESIC Coverage

To qualify for ESIC benefits, certain conditions must be met. Employees working in factories or establishments with 10 or more workers (or 20 if no power is used) are typically covered, provided their monthly wages do not exceed Rs. 21,000. This threshold is periodically reviewed to align with economic changes. Both permanent and contractual workers may be eligible, as long as the employer is registered under the scheme. Dependants, such as spouses, children up to 25 years, and parents, can also access benefits under the employee's coverage.

This table highlights the key eligibility factors, making it easier to determine if you fall under the scheme's umbrella.

What is ESIC Number?

At the heart of the ESIC scheme is the ESIC number, a unique identifier that links employees to their benefits. If you're asking what is ESIC number What is ESIC Number and How to Find It?, it's essentially a 17-digit code assigned to individuals covered under the Employees' State Insurance Scheme (ESIS). This number is distinct from the 10-digit Insurance Number (IP Number), which is specifically for the insured person and remains constant throughout their career, even across job changes.

The ESIC number facilitates seamless administration, allowing the corporation to track contributions, process claims, and deliver services efficiently. It's generated upon registration and is crucial for accessing medical facilities or claiming reimbursements.

Structure and Components of the ESIC Number

The 17-digit ESIC number follows a specific format, such as XX-XX-XXXXXX-XXX-XXXX, where each segment represents details like the region, sub-region, employer code, and extension. For instance, the first two digits often indicate the state or region, ensuring geographical specificity. This structured format helps in quick verification and reduces errors in record-keeping.

Understanding this breakdown can demystify the number, making it less intimidating when dealing with official processes.

Importance of the ESIC Number

The ESIC number is more than just a code; it's your key to a range of protections that promote health and financial stability. Without it, claiming benefits becomes challenging, potentially delaying access to critical care. In a landscape where healthcare costs are rising, this number ensures that low-wage workers aren't left vulnerable. It also encourages employers to comply with labour laws, fostering a more secure work environment.

Moreover, in contexts where employers provide additional safeguards like group health insurance, the ESIC number complements these by offering baseline coverage that can be built upon for broader protection.

Benefits Provided Under ESIC

ESIC offers a multifaceted array of benefits, blending medical support with cash allowances to address various life events. These are funded through contributions from employees (0.75% of wages) and employers (3.25%), creating a pooled resource for collective welfare.

Medical Benefits

From the first day of insurable employment, you and your family can access reasonable medical care at ESIC facilities. This includes consultations, hospitalisation, medicines, and specialist treatments without any cap on expenditure. For serious conditions, super-speciality care is available through tie-ups with advanced hospitals.

In addition to individual plans, some organisations integrate ESIC with group health insurance to extend coverage, ensuring employees have options for private care if needed.

Cash Benefits

Beyond medical aid, ESIC provides financial relief through several cash benefits:

This table outlines the core cash benefits, illustrating how ESIC addresses both short-term and long-term needs with medically relevant support.

These provisions ensure that health issues don't lead to financial distress, promoting overall well-being.

How to Find Your ESIC Number?

Locating your ESIC number is straightforward, with multiple avenues available to retrieve it. If you've misplaced it or are unsure where to look, start with the most accessible options.

Checking Salary Slips and ESIC Cards

Your monthly salary slip often includes the ESIC number or IP number in the deductions section. Employers are required to mention these details for transparency. Similarly, the ESIC Pehchan card, issued upon registration, prominently displays the number. If you have a physical or digital version, refer to it directly.

Using the ESIC Online Portal

The official ESIC website provides a user-friendly portal for insured persons. Log in using your registered mobile number or Aadhaar details, navigate to the 'Insured Person' section, and select options to view or retrieve your number. You'll need to verify your identity through OTP for security.

Contacting HR or Local ESIC Office

Approach your employer's HR department, as they maintain records of all ESIC registrations. Provide your employee ID or other identifiers for quick assistance. Alternatively, visit the nearest ESIC branch office with proof of identity like Aadhaar or PAN card. Staff can search their database using your details to furnish the number.

For those without immediate access, the ESIC helpline (1800-11-2526) offers guidance over the phone.

Steps to Register for ESIC

Registration is employer-initiated but involves employee details. Once the establishment registers online via the ESIC portal, employees submit forms with personal information, leading to the generation of the ESIC number. Contributions begin from the date of joining, and benefits become accessible shortly after. Regular updates to mobile numbers and bank details ensure smooth claim processing.

Also Read : ESIC Portal & Login Guide – Everything You Need to Know

Summing Up

The ESIC scheme stands as a cornerstone of worker protection in India, with the ESIC number enabling efficient access to its offerings. By familiarising yourself with what is ESIC number What is ESIC Number and How to Find It?, you empower yourself to utilise these resources effectively. Whether for routine check-ups or unforeseen challenges, this system provides reassurance, blending medical accuracy with practical support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between ESIC number and IP number?

The ESIC number is a 17-digit identifier for coverage under the scheme, while the IP number is a 10-digit unique code for the insured individual, used primarily for benefit claims.

Who is eligible for ESIC benefits?

Employees earning up to Rs. 21,000 monthly in qualifying establishments (10+ workers) are eligible, along with their dependants.

Can I access ESIC benefits without the number?

No, the number is essential for verification and claiming services; retrieve it promptly if lost.

How do contributions to ESIC work?

Employees contribute 0.75% of wages, employers 3.25%, deducted automatically and remitted by the employer.

What medical facilities are covered under ESIC?

Full medical care, including hospitalisation, medicines, and super-speciality treatments at ESIC network facilities.

Is ESIC coverage transferable between jobs?

Yes, the IP number remains the same; inform your new employer to continue contributions.

How can I update my details linked to the ESIC number?

Use the ESIC portal or visit a branch office with supporting documents for updates like mobile number or address.