A PAN (Permanent Account Number) is basically a 10-digit alphanumeric national identification number. This number does not change even if you move to another state in India.

However, it is ideal that you apply for one by the age of 18 years or at least by the time you apply for your first job.

Why You Need a PAN Card?

The primary purpose of a PAN card is for the Income Tax Department to track your income data and to prevent tax evasion. But there is more to PAN card applications than income tax.

You require a PAN card:

• To open a bank account.
• To open a demat account and trade in shares and securities.
• To file your tax returns.
• To make income tax payments.
• To apply for a visa or passport.
• To apply for a loan.

Apply for Your PAN Card

Firstly, you need to fill up the PAN application form which is Form 49A. You can get the form-

1. From an IT PAN service centre or a TIN (Tax Information Network) Facilitation centre or
2. By downloading it from the websites of the Income Tax department or UTITSL (UTI Technology Services Ltd.) or NSDL (National Securities Depository Ltd).

Once you have filled the form, you need to submit it to an IT PAN service centre or a TIN (Tax Information Network) Facilitation centre. However, there is also a facility where by you can fill the form directly online too. You will need to pay a fee of Rs.67 to have your PAN card processed.

Some other things you will need are:

• A stamp size photograph
• Copy of proof of identity (eg. identity card, election card, driving license)
• Copy of proof of residence (eg. electricity bill, telephone bill, passport, ration card)

Processing Your PAN Card

It will take approximately eight to fifteen days to get your PAN card. Once you receive your PAN card, do not forget to make a few Xerox copies of it.

The UTITSL or NSDL websites allow you to track the processing of your PAN card via the Internet. You can know your PAN even before your card reaches you. You will also be able to track which stage your card is at i.e. whether the PAN has been allotted, the card has been couriered, the card cannot be processed etc.

If your PAN card cannot be processed, you will receive a letter at your address for communication stating the reason for the same.

Lost Your PAN Card?

Don't fill out a fresh application.

First, you will need to file an FIR. Submit a copy of the FIR along with a new PAN card application and all the required documents.

If there are mistakes in your PAN card details like wrong date of birth or name misspelled or your signature has changed after marriage, you can refill the application form stating your allotted PAN.