The Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a crucial document in India. It's used for various financial transactions, including filing income tax returns, investing in mutual funds, and verifying your identity for bank accounts. Traditionally, obtaining a PAN card involved submitting paper applications and waiting for processing. However, the Income Tax Department offers a faster and more convenient way to acquire a PAN - the instant e-PAN through Aadhaar.
Eligibility for instant e-PAN card
To apply for an instant e-PAN using Aadhaar, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- You must possess a valid Aadhaar card linked to your registered mobile number.
- You should not already have a PAN card linked to your Aadhaar.
- Your Aadhaar details, including your name, date of birth, and photograph, must be accurate and match the information you provide during the application process.
How to apply for instant PAN card through Aadhaar
Applying for an instant e-PAN is a straightforward online process. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the Income Tax Department e-filing website: Open a web browser and navigate to the official website of the Income Tax Department (https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/)
- Locate the 'Instant e-PAN’ option: On the homepage, look for the 'Quick Links' section. Under this section, you will find the option for ‘Instant e-PAN.’ Click on this button
- Choose the appropriate option: The e-filing website offers two options under the 'Instant PAN through Aadhaar' section: ‘Get New e-PAN’ and ‘Check Status/Download PAN’
- Get new PAN: If you are applying for a new PAN card for the first time, select the ‘Get New e-PAN’ option
- Check status/download PAN: If you have already applied for an instant e-PAN and want to check its status or download the e-PAN card, choose the ‘Check Status/Download PAN’ option
- Enter your Aadhaar details (for new PAN): If you selected ‘Get New e-PAN,’ you will be directed to a new page. Here, enter your valid 12-digit Aadhaar number in the designated field
- Validate your Aadhaar (for new PAN): After entering your Aadhaar number, you will need to check a box confirming that you agree to the terms and conditions. Then, click on the ‘Continue’ button. The system will retrieve your Aadhaar details pre-filled based on your Aadhaar number
- Verify using OTP (for new PAN): An OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent to your mobile number registered with your Aadhaar. Enter the received OTP in the designated field on the website and click on ‘Validate Aadhaar OTP and Continue’
- Review and submit the application (for new PAN): Once the OTP is validated, you will be able to review your pre-filled Aadhaar details. Ensure all the information is accurate. If there are any discrepancies, you cannot rectify them during the instant PAN application process. You will need to apply for a regular PAN by submitting a paper application form. If everything looks correct, click on the ‘Submit’ button to complete your instant e-PAN application
- Download e-PAN (from check Status/Download PAN): If you selected ‘Check Status/Download PAN,’ enter your Aadhaar number and captcha code on the designated fields and click ‘Submit.’ If an e-PAN card has been allotted to you, you can download the PDF copy by following the on-screen instructions. The e-PAN will include a QR code containing your demographic details and can be used for most purposes where a physical PAN card is required
How to download e-PAN card using Aadhaar number?
Once you receive confirmation that your PAN number has been assigned, you can download your e-PAN through the Income Tax Department's e-Filing website:
- Visit the income tax website
- Under ‘Quick Links,’ locate and click ‘Instant E-PAN’
- Select the ‘Check Status of PAN’ link
- Enter your Aadhaar number in the designated field
- Enter the OTP sent to your Aadhaar-registered mobile number
- Check the status to see if your PAN has been assigned
- If assigned, click the download link to obtain your e-PAN as a PDF file
How to check status of instant PAN Card
You can check the status of your Instant PAN Card online by following these steps:
- Visit the official Income Tax e-Filing website.
- Click on the "Instant PAN through Aadhaar" option.
- Select "Check Status/Download PAN" from the available options.
- Enter your Aadhaar number and the CAPTCHA code displayed on the screen.
- Click on "Submit" to proceed.
- If your PAN has been allotted, you can download the e-PAN instantly.
What are the benefits of instant PAN through Aadhaar?
- Fast and Hassle-Free: Get your PAN instantly in a paperless manner.
- Completely Online Process: No need for physical documentation or in-person visits.
- No Charges: The service is free of cost for all applicants.
- E-PAN Format: The PAN is issued in digital format, which can be downloaded anytime.
- Simplifies Taxation: Helps individuals comply with tax regulations and facilitates financial transactions.
- Enhances Transparency: Reduces fraud and promotes better financial accountability.
e-PAN card – Eligibility
Here are the key requirements to apply for instant PAN through Aadhaar-based e-KYC:
- You must not already possess a PAN card.
- You must be of legal age (not a minor) at the time of application.
- You require a valid Aadhaar Card with a mobile number linked to it.
- Your full date of birth (in DD/MM/YY format) must be present on your Aadhaar Card.
- You cannot fall under the category of a ‘Representative Assessee’ as defined in Section 160 of the Income Tax Act.
Conclusion
Obtaining an instant e-PAN through Aadhaar is a fast and convenient way to acquire your PAN card. The entire process can be completed online within minutes, eliminating the need for paper forms and lengthy waiting times. Remember, this method is only applicable if you do not have a PAN card already and your Aadhaar details are valid and up-to-date.
