Whether you are paying tax, opening a bank account, or making a significant investment, your PAN (Permanent Account Number) is essential. The Income Tax Department brought this 10-digit alpha-numeric number into existence that links all your money transactions with one identity. The questions most frequently asked about PAN in 2025 are mentioned below.
Q. What is a PAN card?
A PAN card is a laminated card issued by the Income Tax Department that contains your 10-character unique alphanumeric PAN. A PAN card is used to track financial transactions and tax activity in India.
Q. Who needs a PAN card?
Any individual receiving taxable income, which involves business, or carrying out transactions involving large-value financial transactions such as buying property or mutual funds must have a PAN card. It is also required when opening a demat or bank account.
Q. Is it compulsory to file ITR with a PAN card?
Yes, you'll have to pay your income tax return (ITR) without a PAN. PAN is mandatory for all taxpayers, and it gets used automatically to track your filings.
Q. How do I apply for a PAN card?
You may apply online from the websites of NSDL or UTIITSL using Form 49A (if you are an Indian citizen) or Form 49AA (if you are a foreign citizen). You need basic documents of identity and address, along with a photo.
Q. Is Aadhaar mandatory while applying for a PAN?
Yes, Aadhaar is mandatory for those who are applying for a PAN card. Aadhaar number is used for e-KYC and verification in the application process.
Q. How long does it take to get a PAN card?
After document submission and verification, it will take normally 7–15 working days for a physical PAN card to arrive. An e-PAN is generally issued within 48–72 hours.
Q. May I have more than one PAN card?
No. Having more than one PAN is prohibited. In case you have been wrongly issued duplicate PANs, you must return the duplicate one immediately to avoid penalties.
Q. What happens if I don't connect PAN with Aadhaar?
Your PAN becomes useless unless it is linked with Aadhaar. It means you would not be able to file return of income, get refund, or do certain financial transactions until it activates again.
Q. Aadhaar linking with PAN how to do?
You can link Aadhaar with PAN on Income Tax Department's website either by logging into your account or can use SMS facility (send UIDPAN <12-digit Aadhaar> <10-digit PAN> to 567678 or 56161).
Q. Can I modify my PAN card details?
Yes. You can modify name, date of birth, photo, or address online using the NSDL or UTIITSL website. There's a fee, and you need to upload supporting documents.
Q. Is it necessary to have a PAN for mutual fund investment?
Yes. PAN is mandatory for investment in mutual funds, opening a trading account, or trading in the stock market.
Q. What is an e-PAN?
An e-PAN is digitally signed PAN card presented online in PDF format. It is just as valid as the paper PAN card and is presented earlier—very useful for urgent needs.
Q. Can a PAN card be obtained by minors?
Yes. The guardian or parent can apply for a PAN for a minor. It's useful when the child is receiving income or for investments in the minor's name.
Q. What is the penalty for absence of PAN?
If PAN is mandatory in a transaction and you fail to quote it, a fine of ₹10,000 can be imposed under Section 272B of the Income Tax Act.
Q. Can I utilize PAN as address proof?
No. PAN is not valid as proof of address. It is only used for identification and tax purposes. You’ll need documents like Aadhaar or passport for address proof.
Q. What is Form 49A and Form 49AA?
Form 49A is used by Indian citizens to apply for a PAN card, while Form 49AA is used by foreign nationals or NRIs. Both are available on the NSDL and UTI portals.
Q. What if I lose my PAN card?
You may download the e-PAN or request a reprint from the official sites. You need to authenticate via Aadhaar or OTP-based login.
Q. Is PAN card available for NRIs?
Yes. Non-Resident Indians can apply for a PAN if they have income in India or if they plan to invest. They shall have to fill form 49AA and provide a foreign address as well as proof of identity.
Q. Do I require PAN for buying jewellery or gold?
Yes. If your jewellery buying is more than ₹2 lakh, PAN is required for the purchase. That holds good for both card and cash purchases.
Q. How do I check my PAN card status?
You can track your PAN application status on the acknowledgement number on the website of NSDL or UTI. The status is usually available within a couple of days of submission.
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