Apply PAN Card Online: Quick, Easy & Expert-Backed!

Overview

PAN Card Application in India

An Overview

A PAN (Permanent Account Number) card is a critical document issued by the Indian Income Tax Department. It provides a unique 10-digit alphanumeric identifier that is vital for individuals, companies, NRIs, and foreign nationals engaged in financial activities in India. The PAN card includes essential details like the cardholder's name, father’s name, date of birth (or registration date for companies), and the PAN itself. It is necessary for filing income tax returns, registering a company, conducting financial transactions, and even securing utility connections.

What is a PAN Card?

A PAN card is issued by the Indian Income Tax Department under the Income Tax Act, 1961. It features a unique 10-character alphanumeric identifier which remains valid throughout the lifetime of the cardholder. This identifier is crucial for individuals and businesses involved in financial and tax-related activities in India.

PAN 2.0 – a Modern Approach:

The Income Tax Department's PAN 2.0 initiative modernizes the issuance process. This includes e-PAN cards with secure QR codes, emailed directly to applicants without any additional charges. A minimal fee is charged for the physical PAN card. PAN 2.0 aims to enhance the process with digitalization, improved cybersecurity, and eco-friendly operations.

Note: Existing PAN cards remain valid even without a QR code, and you don’t need to apply for a new one.

Who Can Apply for a PAN?

PAN card eligibility extends to a broad range of individuals and entities conducting financial transactions or liable to pay taxes in India. This includes:

Individuals: Indian citizens, including minors (applications submitted by parents or guardians).
Companies: All companies registered in India.
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs): NRIs earning taxable income in India or engaging in financial transactions that require a PAN.
Foreign Nationals: Foreigners conducting transactions in India requiring a PAN.
Partnerships/LLPs: Firms and Limited Liability Partnerships in India.
Trusts, Associations, and Other Organizations: Entities such as trusts, clubs, and associations engaged in business activities in India.

Why do you Need a PAN Card?

A PAN card is required for:

Filing income tax returns
Business registrations
Bank and financial transactions
Identification and address proof
E-KYC services

Since the Union Budget 2019, it is possible to file income tax returns using Aadhaar instead of PAN.

Benefits of Having a PAN Card

Income Tax Filing: Essential for all taxpayers to file their returns.
Identity Proof: A widely accepted document for identification.
Tax Deductions: A linked PAN with your bank can reduce TDS on savings interest from 30% to 10%.
Tax Refunds: Linking your PAN with your bank allows you to claim tax refunds easily.
Business Registration: Necessary to start a company or business, including obtaining a Tax Registration Number (TRN).
Bank and Demat Accounts: A PAN is required to open savings or current accounts and Demat accounts.
Real Estate Transactions: Required for buying or selling property valued above Rs. 10 lakh.
Foreign Travel: PAN is necessary for transactions over Rs. 50,000 related to foreign travel.
High-Value Purchases: PAN is required for purchases above Rs. 2 lakh or hotel/restaurant bills above Rs. 50,000.

Documents Required for PAN Card Application

Applicants must submit certain documents along with the application form (either Form 49A or Form 49AA). Here's a breakdown of the documents required based on applicant type:

Individual Applicants:
1. Identity Proof: Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License, etc.
2. Address Proof: Utility bills, Passport, Voter ID, Driving License, etc.
3. Date of Birth Proof: Birth Certificate, Matriculation Certificate, Passport.
Hindu Undivided Family (HUF):
1. Affidavit by Karta: Stating details of all members.
2. Karta’s Proof: ID, address, and date of birth proof.
Companies & Firms:
1. Certificate of Registration: From the Registrar of Companies or Firms.
2. Partnership Deed: For LLPs and partnership firms.
Non-Indian Citizens:
1. Identity Proof: Passport, National ID, OCI Card, etc.
2. Address Proof: Bank statements, Passport, NRE Bank statement.

How to Apply for a PAN Card Online

Online Application: Visit the official NSDL or UTIITSL website, choose the appropriate form (Form 49A for Indian citizens or Form 49AA for foreigners), and fill it out carefully. Upload the required documents as part of the process.
Submit Documents: You can submit your documents through e-KYC, e-sign, or physically at your nearest branch based on your preference.
Payment & Acknowledgment: After submitting the form and making the payment, you’ll receive a 15-digit acknowledgment number, which can be used to track your application status.
Submit the Application: Print the acknowledgment receipt, sign it, and send it to the relevant NSDL or UTIITSL address within 15 days.
At FilingIn, our expert team provides support throughout both the online and offline application processes, ensuring that you experience a smooth and hassle-free PAN Cards application. Whether you're applying for the first time or making changes, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Structure and Format of PAN Card

Structure of PAN Cards:

A PAN card is designed to provide essential details for identity verification and is used as proof of age in line with KYC (Know Your Customer) guidelines:

Cardholder’s Name: The full name of the individual or entity applying for the PAN.
Father’s Name: Required for individual cardholders.
Date of Birth: Displayed beneath the father’s name for individuals.
Permanent Account Number (PAN): A unique 10-character alphanumeric identifier.
Signature: The signature of the individual cardholder.
Photograph: A passport-sized photo of the cardholder.

PAN Format:

The first three characters are alphabetic (A-Z).
The fourth character indicates the category of taxpayer (e.g., 'A' for Association of Persons, 'P' for Individual).
The fifth character is the first letter of the individual’s surname.
The remaining characters are a mix of random numbers and an alphabet.

This format ensures a unique identifier for each taxpayer, helping streamline financial transactions and tax compliance.

Additional Information

Types of PAN Cards & Forms:

The following are types of PAN cards and their corresponding forms:

Type of PAN Card	Eligible Applicants	Corresponding Form
PAN Card for Individuals	Indian Citizens, minors, students	Form 49A
PAN Card for NRIs	Non-Resident Indians, Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs)	Form 49A
PAN Card for Foreign Entities	Foreign firms, corporates operating in India	Form 49AA
PAN Card for Overseas Citizens of India (OCI)	OCI, Non-Resident Entities	Form 49AA
PAN Card for Indian Companies	Firms and corporate entities	Form 49A

Consequences of not Having a PAN Cards:

Not having a PAN card can result in the following limitations:

Transaction Restrictions: Cannot conduct transactions over ₹50,000.
Property Deals: Not possible to purchase or sell property without a PAN.
Tax Filing: Unable to file Income Tax Returns without a PAN.
Credit Applications: Credit cards and loans may be rejected.

Track PAN Application Status:

To check the status of your PAN cards application:

Visit the NSDL or UTIITSL website.
Enter your 15-digit acknowledgment number or name and date of birth.
Track the progress to know if it’s under process or dispatched.

Correction of PAN Details:

If any information on your PAN card is incorrect, you can apply for corrections online or offline via the NSDL/UTIITSL website.

Linking PAN With Bank Account:

To link your PAN with your bank account, visit your bank’s website or branch, fill out the relevant form, and submit a copy of your PAN card for verification.

Important Considerations for Pan Application:

Ensure the form is filled accurately.
Submit valid proof documents.
Ensure the photograph and signature are clear and within the designated spaces.
Correct spelling of your name.

Why Choose FilingIn for PAN Application in India?

At FilingIn, we understand the importance of having a PAN cards for various financial and legal transactions. Whether you’re an individual, a business, an NRI, or any other entity, our team of experts ensures a hassle-free PAN cards application process.

We offer comprehensive assistance with form filling, document submission, and all related requirements to ensure your PAN cards application is handled efficiently.

Let FilingIn simplify your PAN cards application today!

Frequently Asked Questions in India

What is PAN Card?

A Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is a unique identification number issued by the Income Tax Department of India. It is used to track an individual’s financial transactions and serves as an essential document for tax-related purposes.

Who needs to apply for a PAN Card?

Any individual, Hindu Undivided Family (HUF), company, or other entities who wish to conduct financial transactions such as opening a bank account, filing taxes, or investing in the stock market need to apply for a PAN card.

What are the documents required for PAN Card application?

The necessary documents for PAN application are:

Proof of identity (Aadhaar card, Passport, Voter ID, etc.)
Proof of address (Electricity bill, bank statement, passport, etc.)
Proof of date of birth (Birth certificate, Passport, etc.)
Passport-sized photograph.

How can I apply for a PAN card?

PAN card applications can be submitted online via the official portals (NSDL or UTIITSL) or offline at PAN card centers. For online applications, a form needs to be filled, and documents need to be uploaded.

What is the fee for applying for a PAN card?

The fee for applying for a PAN card is:

Rs. 107 (including taxes) for Indian citizens.
Rs. 997 (including taxes) for foreign nationals.

How long does it take to receive a PAN card?

The PAN card is generally processed and dispatched within 15 to 20 working days after the application is submitted.

Can I update my PAN card details?

Yes, PAN card details such as name, address, or date of birth can be updated. The applicant needs to fill out the PAN correction form, submit it online, and provide the necessary documents for correction.

Can a minor apply for a PAN card?

Yes, a minor can apply for a PAN card. A guardian (parent or legal guardian) will have to fill out the application on their behalf.

Is it possible to track the status of my PAN card application?

Yes, you can track the status of your PAN card application online through the NSDL or UTIITSL websites by entering the application number.

What should I do if I lose my PAN card?

If your PAN card is lost or damaged, you can apply for a reissue of the card by filling out a request on the official website of NSDL or UTIITSL. You will need to provide the PAN number and the necessary identification documents.