Online PAN Application: A Comprehensive
Guide
1.Introduction to PAN :-
A Permanent Account Number (PAN) 10-character alphanumeric
ID issued by India's Income Tax Department of India. It is
important for individual and group of individuals to have the PAN
card, for:
Maintaining Bank Account (credit/debit cards.)
Financial transaction.
Investment (buy/sell property, stocks etc.)
Tax Payment (interest/penalties etc.)
It is mandatory to possess the PAN card for every individual.
2. Eligibility Requirements:-
Eligibility Notes:
Any Person transacting financially in India qualify for pan.
Minor need legal guardians to apply on their behalf.
Who can apply?
Resident individual
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)
Minors via representative
Companies and organisation
Trusts and societies
Foreign citizens conducting business in India
Person involved in Indian financial transaction.
3. Documents Required:-
Following documents are required when applying for the PAN
card:
Proof of identity card: Proof of address:
Aadhaar Card Aadhaar Card
Voter ID Passport
Passport Bank Statement
Driving License Utility Bills
Proof of Date of Birth:
Aadhaar Card
Passport
Birth Certificate
10th Mark Sheet
4. Avoidable Common Mistakes:-
Ensure accuracy to avoid delays or rejection of your PAN card
application. Avoid these frequent errors for a smooth process:
Incomplete or wrong personal details.
Uploading unclear or mismatched document.
Not verifying information before submission.
Not linking Aadhaar with PAN as legally required.
Incorrect or missed payment.
Ignoring application updates or queries.
5. Application Process:-
Steps to Apply:
Access Official Portal:
Visit NSDL or UTIITSL website to start your application.
Fill the Form:
Complete the relevant Form, either 49A or 49AA, Accurate online.
Upload Documents:
Submit supporting document’s digital copies of ID, address, and
DOB proofs.
Secure Payment:
Make payment via credit card, debit card, net banking, or UPI.
And submit the application form.
Download Acknowledgement:
After submission, an acknowledgment receipt with a unique 15-
digit number will be generated.
Save the acknowledgment slip for future reference and tracking.
Option to Applicant:
Applicant can opt for either physical PAN card or either digital
PAN card. The e-PAN will be sent to applicant’s e-mail ID.
6. PAN Application Fee & Comparison:-
Category Application Fee Additional Charges
Indian Citizen 110 None
Minor 110 None
Foreign Individual 1,020 Includes courier charges
(foreign address)
Company 1,020 Includes courier charges
NGO 1,020 Includes courier charges
Firm/HUF 110 None
Note: The fees mentioned are inclusive of applicable GST as per the
current government regulations. GST is charged on the application fee
and courier charges where applicable.
7. Application Process For Foreign Citizen ( Form
49AA):-
Foreign nationals can apply for PAN card using form 49AA.
Uploading valid proof of identity, address, & dob is
mandatory.
Ensure documents are attested by Indian Embassy or
Notary.
Payment can be made via international credit card.
8. Tracking Details:-
After successful submission of all details a tracking ID will be
generated for checking the Pan status.
9. Description of PAN Number:-
First 5 Characters:
The first three characters are alphabetic series issued from a
pre-defined sequence that ensures uniqueness.
The 4th character represents the applicant's status, such as
individual, company, or other categories, helping to classify
PAN holders
The 5th character is the initial letter of the applicant’s
surname or last name, adding a personalized element to the
PAN number.
Next 4 Characters:
This segment consists of four numeric digits ranging from
0001 to 9999, providing a unique identification number to
distinguish applicants with similar initial characters.
Last Character:
The final character is an alphabetic check digit computed
through an algorithm to validate the authenticity of the PAN
number.
10. Fine & Penalties:-
False Information:
Providing incorrect details on the PAN application can lead
to fines up to Rs.10,000.
Misuse of PAN:
Using PAN for fraudulent activities results in legal action and
penalties.
Non-Compliance:
Failure to update incorrect details may attract penalties
under the Income Tax Act.
Delayed Corrections:
Promptly rectifying mistakes reduces risk of heavy fines and
complications.
