In recent times, the Indian Income Tax Department has introduced the e-PAN card, revolutionising the way individuals obtain their Permanent Account Number (PAN). This 10-digit alphanumeric code, crucial for identifying taxpayers, is now available instantly through the e-PAN system. In this guide, we will explore the key aspects of the e-PAN application and the step-by-step process to ensure a smooth experience.
What is e-PAN Card?
The e-PAN card is a digital version of the traditional PAN card, issued promptly to first-time taxpayers. This initiative aims to accommodate the growing number of PAN applications efficiently. It is important to note that the e-PAN is exclusively for individual taxpayers who do not already possess a PAN. The service is free of cost and operates on a first-come-first-serve basis for a limited period.
Eligibility criteria for e-PAN application
To apply for an e-PAN card, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- You must be an Indian resident
- You must be an individual taxpayer (i.e. not a company or a HUF)
- You must not already hold a PAN
- You must have an Aadhaar card
- You must have an active mobile phone number linked with your Aadhaar
- Your Aadhaar must have your updated and correct details
A step-by-step guide to applying for e-PAN via NSDL
- Visit the NSDL PAN online portal:
Access the NSDL PAN online portal to initiate a new PAN application. Fill in the required details and click 'Submit.' - Choose the e-PAN option:
While filling the application, choose 'No' when asked about the requirement for a physical PAN card. This ensures that the e-PAN will be sent to your email. - Provide Aadhaar details:
Enter the details exactly as per your Aadhaar card. Ensure accuracy to avoid discrepancies. - Document upload and fee payment:
Upload necessary documents and complete the payment of required fees. - Acknowledge and receive:
Upon successful submission, an acknowledgement number will be sent to your registered email or mobile number. Once the e-PAN is allotted, it will be delivered to your email. - Check application status:
Track the status of your e-PAN application using the provided acknowledgement number.
A step-by-step guide to applying for e-PAN via UTIITSL
- Visit UTIITSL PAN online portal:
Access the UTIITSL PAN online portal for a new PAN application. - Choose the e-PAN option:
During the application, select the option for e-PAN only, if a physical card is not required. - Provide Aadhaar details:
Enter accurate details from your Aadhaar card, and ensure mandatory Aadhaar verification. - Document submission:
Complete the application process by attaching scanned copies of the required documents. - Acknowledgement and alert:
Receive a 15-digit acknowledgement number on your email or mobile. Upon e-PAN allotment, an alert will be sent via SMS or email. - Check application status:
Keep track of your e-PAN application status using the provided application coupon number.
A step-by-step guide to applying for e-PAN via the Income Tax e-Filing portal
- Visit the Income Tax e-Filing portal:
Ensure you are 18 years or above and possess an Aadhaar number. Click on 'Get New PAN' on the income tax e-filing portal. - Enter Aadhaar details:
Provide your Aadhaar number, confirm, and proceed. - Consent and confirmation:
Read and agree to the consent terms. Confirm your acceptance to proceed. - Aadhaar OTP verification:
Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number. Confirm and proceed. - Acknowledgement:
Receive an acknowledgement number instantly on the screen, as well as via SMS and email.
How to download an e-PAN card
Once your e-PAN is allotted, download it through the NSDL or UTIITSL portal using your acknowledgement number or PAN card number. Detailed instructions for downloading are given below:
How to download an e-PAN card from NSDL?
Once your e-PAN is allotted, you can download it through the NSDL portal using your acknowledgement number or PAN card number:
- Visit the NSDL PAN portal and start a new PAN application.
- When asked about a physical card, choose "No." This will send the e-PAN to your email.
- Enter your details exactly as they appear on your Aadhaar card.
- Upload required documents and pay the fee.
- You'll get an acknowledgement number via email/mobile. The e-PAN will be sent to your email once allotted.
- Track your application status using the acknowledgement number https://www.trackpan.utiitsl.com/.
How to download an e-PAN card from UTIITSL?
Once your e-PAN is allotted, you can download it through the UTIITSL portal using your acknowledgement number or PAN card number:
- Visit the UTIITSL PAN portal and start a new PAN application.
- Choose between getting both a physical and e-PAN or just the e-PAN
- The physical card will be mailed, and
- the e-PAN will be emailed.
- Enter your Aadhaar details (Aadhaar verification is immediate). Agree and submit.
- After entering all details, the e-PAN application process begins.
- Attach scanned copies of documents to complete the electronic application. You'll receive a 15-digit acknowledgement number via email/mobile. You'll also be alerted (SMS/email) once the e-PAN is allotted.
- Track your application status using the acknowledgement number on https://www.trackpan.utiitsl.com/pen_spark
Applying for an instant e-PAN card with Aadhaar
Eligibility
- Indian resident above 18 years old
- No existing PAN card allocated
- Aadhaar number linked to your mobile number
Steps to apply
- Visit the Income Tax e-Filing website
- Under "Quick Links," click "Instant E-PAN"
- Choose "Get New e-PAN"
- Enter your Aadhaar number, confirm, and click "Continue"
- Agree to the terms and click "Continue"
- Enter the Aadhaar OTP received on your mobile and click "Continue" (valid for 15 minutes only)
- Review your Aadhaar details, accept, and click "Continue"
- You'll receive an acknowledgement number via SMS
Checking e-PAN Card application status with Aadhaar
Steps to track with Aadhaar number
- Visit the Income Tax e-Filing website
- Under "Quick Links," click "Instant E-PAN"
- Choose "Continue" under "Check Status/ Download PAN"
- Enter your Aadhaar number and click "Continue"
- Enter the Aadhaar OTP received on your mobile and click "Continue"
- View or download your e-PAN if generated
Checking e-PAN card application status with mobile number (if applied through NSDL)
Steps to track with registered mobile number
- Send an SMS with your 15-digit acknowledgement number to 57575 from your Aadhaar-registered mobile
- You'll receive a message with the e-PAN status
OR
- Send a "Hi" on WhatsApp to 8096078080
- Choose "Services" and then "Status of Application"
- Select "PAN Application" and enter your acknowledgement number to receive the status
Checking e-PAN card application status with name (limited information)
Steps to track with name
- Visit the TIN-NSDL website
- Choose "PAN - New/Change Request" under "Application Type"
- Select "Name" and enter your Last Name, First Name, Middle Name, and Date of Birth. Click "Submit"
Note: This method may not provide real-time status updates.
To conclude, obtaining an e-PAN card has never been easier. Follow these step-by-step guides as per your preferred application platform and enjoy the benefits of instant access to this essential document for financial transactions and tax compliance.