A Permanent Account Number (PAN) card, issued by the Income Tax Department of India, is a distinct alphanumeric identifier comprising 10 characters. It is crucial for various financial dealings, particularly those related to taxation, such as filing income tax returns, opening bank accounts, investing in securities, buying property, and executing financial transactions within India. Notably, the PAN number remains constant throughout the PAN holder’s lifetime, regardless of address or other personal details changes.
Why Is a PAN Card Necessary?
Primarily, a PAN card is indispensable for filing income tax returns and fulfilling tax obligations. It aids the government in monitoring financial transactions, ensuring accurate tax payments by individuals and entities.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for PAN?
Any existing taxpayer or individual required to file an income tax return, including those acting on behalf of others, must possess a PAN. Additionally, anyone intending to engage in financial transactions where PAN disclosure is mandatory must obtain one.
Steps for Online PAN Application:
- Choose the appropriate PAN application type:
- New PAN for Indian Citizen
- New PAN for Foreign Citizen
- Complete the relevant online form and select the payment mode for form submission.
- Upon successful submission and payment (for online payment mode), an Acknowledgement receipt is generated.
- Save and print the acknowledgement receipt.
- Sign in the designated space, attach recent color photographs, and submit the PAN application with supporting documents either by visiting a designated center (check the center list on the provided website) or by sending the documents to:
INCOME TAX PAN SERVICES UNIT
(Managed by Protean e-Governance Infrastructure Limited)
5th Floor, Mantri Sterling, Plot No. 341,
Survey No. 997/8, Model Colony,
Near Deep Bungalow Chowk,
Pune – 411016
The 15-digit acknowledgement number on the receipt can be used to track the application status.
