Pan 2.0: Everything you need to know about Centre's e-governance project

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has given its nod for the ambitious PAN 2.0 project in an effort to streamline and modernise the process of issuing and managing Permanent Account Number (PAN) and Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN).

The PAN 2.0 project, which will be managed by the Income Tax Department, is the enhanced version of the existing PAN system. It is designed to simplify tax filing processes, improve security and boost accessibility while offering advanced features for streamlined financial and tax transactions.

READ: Govt issues FAQs on PAN 2.0; says QR code not a new feature

Here's all you need to know about PAN 2.0, its features, benefits and how it will affect you as a taxpayer:

What is PAN 2.0?

PAN 2.0 is an upgraded version of the traditional PAN system, which will incorporate advanced technology to make obtaining, using and verifying PAN cards faster and more efficient.

The new system aligns with the Modi government's Digital India initiative and is expected to simplify tax compliance and other financial processes.

In a statement, the ministry of finance said that PAN 2.0 is an e-governance project that aims to re-engineer the business processes of taxpayer registration services.

It will integrate processes like application, updates, corrections, Aadhaar-PAN linking and online validation to ensure quicker, paperless and eco-friendly operations. Moreover, existing PAN holders would not require new cards unless corrections are requested.

PAN 2.0 will also boost security with a PAN Data Vault and aims to establish PAN as a common identifier for government systems.

Existing PAN holders will not be required to apply for new PAN under the upgraded system (PAN 2.0).

Key features of PAN 2.0

1. Instant e-PAN issuance

• PAN 2.0 will enable you to apply for and receive an e-PAN instantly.
• The application process is Aadhaar-based, requiring minimal paperwork and verification time.
• E-PANs are digitally signed and equally valid as physical PAN cards.

• PAN 2.0 includes QR codes to prevent fraud and duplication.
• These QR codes store encrypted data, such as the PAN holder's name, date of birth, and photograph, making verification easier and more secure.

• PAN 2.0 is designed to work seamlessly with other government systems like Aadhaar, GST, and income tax e-filing portals.
• The integration eliminates redundancies and ensures that data is synchronized across platforms.

• By offering digital PAN options, PAN 2.0 reduces the reliance on physical cards, supporting the government's sustainability initiatives.

• You can easily request corrections or replacements for their PAN cards online without the need for physical documentation.

1. Faster application process

• With Aadhaar integration, PAN 2.0 significantly reduces the time required to issue new PANs, often completing the process within minutes.

• The instant e-PAN service ensures that even remote areas with internet access can benefit from the system.
• Taxpayers can download their e-PANs instantly from the income tax portal.

• The addition of QR codes and digital signatures makes it harder for scammers to forge PAN cards.
• Real-time verification ensures that only authentic PAN holders can use the document.

• PAN 2.0 simplifies tasks like opening bank accounts, applying for loans, and filing tax returns by ensuring compatibility with other financial systems.

• Digital PAN cards eliminate the costs associated with printing and courier services, making them more affordable and accessible.

1. Visit the official portal: Log on to the income tax department's official e-filing website or NSDL/TIN-NSDL portal.

2. Link Aadhaar: Ensure your Aadhaar is linked with your mobile number and email for OTP verification.

3. Fill the form: Provide basic details like name, date of birth, and Aadhaar number in the application form.

4. Verification: Complete the OTP verification process.

5. Receive e-PAN: Once verified, download your e-PAN instantly. The physical card will be dispatched if requested.

Important changes with PAN 2.0

1. Mandatory Aadhaar-PAN linking: Linking Aadhaar with PAN is now mandatory for filing income tax returns and conducting major financial transactions.

2. QR code verification: Financial institutions and government agencies can use QR codes for instant PAN verification.

3. Phasing out of old PAN cards: While traditional PAN cards remain valid, the government encourages taxpayers to switch to PAN 2.0 for enhanced benefits and security.

Although QR codes and encryption enhance security, always make sure you access official websites to prevent phishing attempts.

Union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that PAN 2.0 will enhance the existing system and foster a robust digital backbone. "The PAN card is an integral part of our lives, especially for the middle class and small businesses. It has undergone significant upgrades, and PAN 2.0 has been approved today. The existing system will be enhanced, and a robust digital backbone will be introduced."