Namaste! Whether you’re opening a bank account, filing your Income Tax Return, or planning to buy property – PAN Card is a must-have document for every Indian citizen. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about PAN cards, including types, how to apply, required documents, fees, correction process, and common mistakes to avoid.
What is a PAN Card?
PAN stands for Permanent Account Number. It is a 10-character alphanumeric code issued by the Income Tax Department of India. Example format: ABCDE1234F.
Purpose of PAN Card:
- Verifies your identity.
- Tracks your financial transactions.
- Helps maintain transparency in the tax system.
Today, PAN has become a fundamental part of your financial identity.
Types of PAN Cards
Depending on the type of applicant, there are different categories of PAN cards:
- Individual PAN – For general citizens.
- Company PAN – For private/public limited companies.
- Partnership Firm PAN
- HUF PAN – Hindu Undivided Family.
- Trust/NGO PAN
- Minor PAN – For individuals below 18 years of age.
Ensure you select the correct type while applying.
Documents Required for PAN Card
Here are the basic documents required to apply for a PAN card:
- ✅ Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License
- ✅ Address Proof: Aadhaar Card, Utility Bill, Passport
- ✅ Date of Birth Proof: Aadhaar, Birth Certificate, 10th Marksheet
Tip: If your Aadhaar card is up to date, it can serve as a complete proof for identity, address, and DOB.
How to Apply for a PAN Card?
There are two ways to apply:
1. Online Mode (Self Apply)
- Visit: NSDL or UTIITSL
- Fill Form 49A (for Indian Citizens)
- Submit Aadhaar-based eKYC or upload documents
- Pay application fee (₹110 approx.)
- Get acknowledgment number for tracking
- Receive PAN:
- Soft copy: 5–7 days
- Physical copy: 10–15 days
2. Offline Mode
- Download and fill Form 49A
- Attach documents and submit via PAN agent or nearby PAN center
- Follow the same verification and payment process
Online method is faster and preferred if your Aadhaar-linked mobile number is active.
PAN Card Fees & Timelines
| Service | Fees |
|---|---|
| PAN within India | 107 Rs |
| PAN outside India | 1,017 Rs |
| Processing Time | 5–10 working days |
You’ll get a soft copy by email, and the hard copy by post.
PAN Card Correction & Duplicate PAN
Made a mistake on your PAN? Lost your card?
You can apply for correction or duplicate PAN using NSDL/UTI portals.
Common issues corrected:
- Name spelling
- Date of birth
- Father’s name
- Photo or signature mismatch
You can use Aadhaar OTP or upload signed documents for verification.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When applying for PAN, people often make avoidable errors:
- ❌ Incorrect name or DOB
- ❌ Uploading blurry Aadhaar images
- ❌ Using an Aadhaar-linked mobile number that’s inactive
- ❌ Applying for more than one PAN card (illegal)
These mistakes can lead to rejection or delays. So, double-check before submitting!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is Aadhaar mandatory for PAN?
✔ Yes, and your mobile number must be linked for OTP.
Q2: Can minors apply for PAN?
✔ Yes, using guardian’s documents and signature.
Q3: Is PAN mandatory for opening a bank account?
✔ Not initially, but mandatory for certain transaction limits.
Q4: How to check PAN number?
✔ Use the “Know Your PAN” option on NSDL/UTI websites.
Q5: Is Aadhaar-PAN linking necessary?
✔ Yes, failing to do so may attract a ₹1000 penalty and make PAN invalid.
Final Thoughts
PAN Card is the backbone of your financial identity in India. From opening accounts to filing taxes, it’s essential to have one and keep it accurate and updated.
If you need help applying, correcting, or tracking your PAN card, our team at HD Online Services is here to assist you.
📞 Contact us today for fast and reliable service.
Like this blog?
✔ Share it with your friends
✔ Follow us on social media
✔ Visit our center for all Aadhaar, PAN, GST & ITR services!