How to apply for PAN CARD ?
Are you in need of a new PAN card? Look no further! This article will provide you with all the necessary information on how to apply for a PAN card, including the required documents and eligibility criteria. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or need a replacement card, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive right in and make the PAN card application process a breeze. Get ready to have all your questions answered and take the first step towards obtaining your PAN card.
Overview
What is a PAN card?
A PAN card, which stands for Permanent Account Number, is a unique ten-digit alphanumeric identifier issued by the Income Tax Department of India. It serves as a valid proof of identity for individuals, companies, partnerships, trusts, Hindu Undivided Families (HUF), and Associations of Persons (AOP). The PAN card contains essential information such as the PAN number, applicant’s name, date of birth, and photograph.
Why is a PAN card important?
A PAN card is an essential document for various financial transactions in India. It is mandatory for individuals and entities to possess a PAN card for activities such as filing income tax returns, opening bank accounts, conducting high-value financial transactions, acquiring immovable property, and applying for loans. Additionally, a PAN card is required for obtaining a passport, applying for a credit card, and even for starting a business.
Eligibility
Individuals
All individuals who are residents of India, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), and Foreign Nationals who have some form of taxable income in India are eligible to apply for a PAN card. This includes salaried individuals, self-employed professionals, businessmen, freelancers, and students who earn income through scholarships or part-time jobs.
Companies
Companies registered under the Companies Act, 2013, and Partnership firms are eligible for a PAN card. This includes both public and private limited companies, as well as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Partnerships
Partnership firms, including registered and unregistered ones, can apply for a PAN card. A partnership firm is a business association of two or more individuals who share profits and losses according to the partnership deed.
Trusts
Trusts, which are formed for charitable or religious purposes, can apply for a PAN card. These trusts must be registered under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, and should have a valid registration certificate.
Hindu Undivided Families (HUF)
Hindu Undivided Families, consisting of a common ancestor and his lineal descendants, are eligible to obtain a PAN card. HUFs are commonly formed for joint family businesses and are considered as separate entities for taxation purposes.
Associations of Persons (AOP)
Associations of Persons, which include any group of individuals or entities combined for a common purpose, can apply for a PAN card. This includes organizations such as societies, clubs, or mutual benefit funds.
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Documents Required
Proof of identity
Applicants need to provide a valid proof of identity while applying for a PAN card. Acceptable documents for proof of identity include Aadhaar card, passport, driving license, voter ID card, ration card with a photograph, or a government-issued identity card.
Proof of address
Applicants must also submit a valid proof of address along with their PAN card application. The acceptable documents for proof of address include Aadhaar card, passport, driving license, voter ID card, ration card, electricity bill, telephone bill, bank account statement, or any other document issued by a government authority.
Proof of date of birth
Individuals need to submit proof of their date of birth while applying for a PAN card. The acceptable documents for proof of date of birth include birth certificate, matriculation certificate, passport, driving license, or any other government-issued certificate containing the date of birth.
Proof of Indian citizenship
Applicants need to provide proof of Indian citizenship while applying for a PAN card. This can be done by submitting a copy of the passport as a proof of Indian nationality.
Application Process
Online application
To apply for a PAN card online, you need to visit the official website of the Income Tax Department of India. Once on the website, follow the steps mentioned below:
Fill the application form
Click on the “Apply Online” link and select the appropriate form based on your category (individual, company, partnership, etc.). Fill in all the required details correctly and accurately. It is important to double-check the information before submitting the form.
Upload necessary documents
After filling the application form, you need to upload scanned copies of the necessary documents such as proof of identity, address, date of birth, and citizenship. Ensure that the documents are in the specified format and within the prescribed size limits.
Make the payment
Once the documents are uploaded, proceed to make the payment for the PAN card application. The fee for applying for a PAN card varies based on the category of the applicant. The online payment options include credit/debit card, net banking, or digital wallets.
Submit the application
After the payment is made successfully, submit the application. You will receive an acknowledgment number, which can be used for future reference and tracking the status of the application.
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Offline Application
Download the application form
In case you prefer to apply for a PAN card offline, you can download the application form from the official website of the Income Tax Department. The form is available in a PDF format that can be filled manually.
Fill the application form
Carefully fill in all the required details in the application form. Make sure to write legibly and avoid any errors or mistakes. Cross-check the information before proceeding.
Attach necessary documents
After filling the application form, attach the required documents such as proof of identity, address, date of birth, and citizenship. Make sure to staple the documents securely with the application form.
Visit the nearest PAN center
Once the application is filled and the documents are attached, visit the nearest PAN center. These centers are typically present in authorized government offices or IT PAN Service Centers (TIN-FCs). Submit the application form and documents to the concerned officer.
Submit the application
The officer will verify all the documents and accept your application. You will receive an acknowledgment receipt as proof of submission. Keep this receipt safe to track the status of your application.
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payment
Online payment
Online payment is the simplest and quickest way to pay the PAN card application fee. The fee can be paid using various online payment options such as credit/debit card, net banking, or digital wallets. Ensure that you choose a secure payment gateway for making the payment.
Demand draft
If you prefer to make the payment offline, you can obtain a demand draft from any authorized bank. The demand draft should be in favor of ‘NSDL-PAN’, payable at the location where the PAN card application is being submitted.
Cheque
In certain cases, the PAN card application fee can be paid using a cheque. The cheque should be drawn in favor of ‘NSDL-PAN’ and should be payable at the location where the PAN card application is being submitted.
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Processing Time
Processing time for online applications
The processing time for online PAN card applications is usually faster compared to offline applications. In most cases, the PAN card is dispatched within 15-20 working days from the date of submitting the online application. However, this processing time may vary based on the volume of applications received by the Income Tax Department.
Processing time for offline applications
The processing time for offline PAN card applications is relatively longer. It can take anywhere between 30-45 working days for the PAN card to be dispatched after submitting the application at the PAN center. This extended time is due to the manual processing involved in offline applications.
Status Tracking
Online tracking
The Income Tax Department provides an online facility to track the status of your PAN card application. You can visit the official website, enter your acknowledgment number and other required details, and check the current status of your application.
SMS tracking
You can also track the status of your PAN card application through SMS. Simply send an SMS to the designated number provided by the Income Tax Department in the prescribed format. You will receive an SMS with the current status of your application.
Call center
Alternatively, you can contact the Income Tax Department’s call center to inquire about the status of your PAN card application. The call center executives will assist you with the necessary information and updates regarding your application.
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FAQs
What is the fee for applying for a PAN card?
The fee for applying for a PAN card differs based on the category of the applicant. For Indian citizens, the fee is INR 110 (excluding GST) for dispatching the PAN card within India. For dispatching outside India, the fee is INR 1,020 (excluding GST).
Is it mandatory for every individual to possess a PAN card?
It is not mandatory for every individual to possess a PAN card. However, having a PAN card is highly beneficial and often required for various financial transactions, including filing income tax returns, opening bank accounts, and conducting high-value transactions.
How long is a PAN card valid for?
A PAN card does not have an expiry date. Once issued, it remains valid for a lifetime. However, any changes or corrections in the PAN card details can be made by applying for a duplicate or corrected PAN card.
Can a PAN card application be made on behalf of a minor?
Yes, a PAN card application can be made on behalf of a minor. The application can be submitted by the parent or legal guardian of the minor, who will be responsible for providing the necessary documents and information.
