The PAN Aadhaar link is a mandatory requirement for all Indian taxpayers. The Indian government has made it compulsory to link the Permanent Account Number (PAN) with the Aadhaar number to streamline the income tax filing process and reduce tax evasion. Failure to link PAN with Aadhaar can lead to deactivation of the PAN card, which could impact financial transactions like opening bank accounts, filing income tax returns, and more.
The easiest way to link your PAN with Aadhaar is through the official Income Tax e-filing website. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Visit the official Income Tax e-filing website at www.incometax.gov.in.
Step 2: Locate the ‘Link Aadhaar’ option on the homepage. Click on it.
Step 3: Enter your PAN number, Aadhaar number, your name as per Aadhaar, and the captcha code displayed.
Step 4: Check the box if only your birth year is mentioned in your Aadhaar.
Step 5: Click on the ‘Link Aadhaar’ button to submit.
Step 6: A confirmation message will appear stating that your PAN and Aadhaar have been successfully linked, if all details match.
After linking your PAN and Aadhaar, it’s essential to verify that the process was successful. Here are a few easy ways to check the status:
Method 1: Using the Income Tax E-Filing Portal
Step 1: Go to the Income Tax e-filing website at www.incometax.gov.in.
Step 2: Look for the option ‘Link Aadhaar Status’ on the homepage.
Step 3: Enter your PAN number and Aadhaar number.
Step 4: Click on the ‘View Link Aadhaar Status’ button.
Step 5: If your PAN and Aadhaar are linked, the status message will confirm it. If they are not linked, you will need to initiate the linking process.
Method 2: Checking PAN Aadhaar Link Status via NSDL Website
Step 1: Visit the NSDL website at www.tin-nsdl.com.
Step 2: Find the ‘PAN-Aadhaar Link Status’ section.
Step 3: Enter your PAN and Aadhaar numbers, followed by the captcha code.
Step 4: Click the ‘Submit’ button to view the linking status.
Method 3: Using SMS to Check PAN Aadhaar Link Status
Step 1: Open the messaging app on your mobile phone.
Step 2: Type the SMS in the following format: UIDPAN <12-digit Aadhaar> <10-digit PAN>.
Step 3: Send the SMS to 567678 or 56161.
Step 4: If the PAN and Aadhaar are linked, you will receive a confirmation message. If not, the message will prompt you to complete the linking.
If you find the online process challenging, you can easily link your PAN and Aadhaar via SMS. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Open your mobile’s SMS application.
Step 2: Type an SMS in the following format: UIDPAN <12-digit Aadhaar> <10-digit PAN>.
Example: If your Aadhaar number is 123456789012 and your PAN is ABCDE1234F, your SMS will look like this: UIDPAN 123456789012 ABCDE1234F
Step 3: Send this SMS to 567678 or 56161.
Step 4: You will receive a confirmation message on the successful linking of PAN and Aadhaar.
Step 5: If the details do not match, you will be informed via SMS, and you will need to correct the discrepancies.
As of recent updates, there are fees associated with linking PAN and Aadhaar, especially if it is done after the official deadline. Here’s a breakdown:
Linking Before Deadline:
Linking After Deadline:
The government may also levy additional penalties for non-compliance with tax regulations.
The government may also levy additional penalties for non-compliance with tax regulations.
For those who prefer not to use online methods, linking PAN and Aadhaar offline is also possible. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the nearest Income Tax Department office or an authorized PAN service center.
Step 2: Fill out the ‘Annexure-I’ form, which is specifically for PAN Aadhaar linking.
Step 3: Submit a self-attested copy of your PAN card and Aadhaar card along with the form.
Step 4: The official will verify the details provided.
Step 5: Once verified, your PAN will be linked to Aadhaar, and you will be notified.
If you face any difficulties during the linking process, here’s how to get assistance:
What happens if I don’t link PAN with Aadhaar?
Your PAN will become inoperative, affecting your ability to file income tax returns and conduct financial transactions.
Is it possible to link PAN with Aadhaar without a registered mobile number?
No, a mobile number registered with Aadhaar is required for OTP verification during the linking process.
Can I link Aadhaar to multiple PAN cards?
No, Aadhaar can only be linked to one PAN. Holding multiple PANs is illegal and may result in penalties.
How long does it take for the PAN Aadhaar linking process to complete?
The process is usually instant if all details match, but it can take up to 5-7 days in some cases.
How can I check if my PAN and Aadhaar are already linked?
Visit the Income Tax e-filing website, navigate to 'Link Aadhaar Status,' and enter your PAN and Aadhaar numbers to verify.
How to check PAN Aadhaar link using SMS?
Send an SMS in the format UIDPAN
Can PAN be used if not linked to Aadhaar?
No, an unlinked PAN may be deactivated, limiting its use for financial activities and tax-related matters.
Is there a fee waiver for PAN Aadhaar linking?
No, the fee must be paid if linking is done after the official deadline. There is no waiver available.
What to do if I have multiple PAN cards?
Surrender any duplicate PAN cards to avoid legal issues before proceeding with the Aadhaar linking.
How to ensure PAN Aadhaar link status is up-to-date?
Regularly check the status on the Income Tax e-filing website or via SMS to confirm the link is still active.
Linking your PAN and Aadhaar is a crucial step for all taxpayers in India. It not only simplifies the tax filing process but also ensures that your financial records are in compliance with government regulations. Ensure you complete the linking process before the deadline to avoid penalties and legal complications.