CHENNAI: The government has mandated linking PAN with Aadhaar to improve tax transparency and accuracy, with non-compliance risking PAN deactivation.
For PANs issued on or after October 1, 2024, the deadline is December 31, 2025, while for all others the original deadline was May 31, 2024, though linking is still allowed till December 31 with a Rs 1,000 penalty.
Failure to link by December 31 can render the PAN inactive, affecting income tax filing, refunds, access to Form 26AS, and leading to higher TDS/TCS rates.
An inactive PAN can also disrupt banking, KYC, and investments such as mutual funds and equities, making timely linking essential.
DT Next's guide below provides a simplified, step-by-step process for quick completion, available both online and via SMS:
What are two convenient methods to link PAN with Aadhaar?
Method 1: Online via the Income Tax e-Filing Portal
- Official Access: Visit the official Income Tax e-filing portal: https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/
- "Link Aadhaar" Selection: Click on the "Link Aadhaar" option in the "Quick Links" section.
- Data Entry: Enter your 10-digit PAN and 12-digit Aadhaar number with absolute accuracy.
- Verification: Click "Validate" to ensure the entered details are correct.
- Payment (If applicable): If a fee is required, you'll be redirected to the e-Pay Tax service. Follow the payment instructions.
- Submission: Enter your name (as on Aadhaar), registered mobile number, and the OTP sent to your phone. Click "Submit."
- Confirmation: A confirmation message will confirm successful submission.
Method 2: Linking via SMS
- SMS Composition: Type "UIDPAN <12-digit Aadhaar number> <10-digit PAN>" (e.g., UIDPAN 123456789012 ABCDE1234F).
- SMS Delivery: Send the SMS to 567678 or 56161 from your registered mobile number.
Essential Reminders:
- Precision is Key: Ensure absolute accuracy when entering your PAN and Aadhaar details. Discrepancies will lead to rejection.
- Official Channels Only: Use only the official Income Tax e-filing portal or the designated SMS numbers to avoid scams.
- Status Check: You can verify the linking status on the Income Tax e-filing portal.
What are the consequences of an inactive PAN?
Income tax return filing becomes difficult; refunds may be stuck
Higher TDS and TCS rates, with no access to Form 26AS or TDS/TCS certificates
Banking restrictions, including opening accounts, cards, and high-value transactions
Incomplete KYC, leading to denial of government and financial services
Mutual fund and equity investments may be halted
Act Now!
By following these simple steps, Indian citizens can easily link their PAN with Aadhaar, ensuring compliance and avoiding severe consequences.
The Income Tax Department strongly urges all taxpayers to complete this critical process without delay.