About e-PAN
Permanent Account Number (PAN) is an essential financial document in India, acting as a universal identification key for tracking financial transactions. Electronic Permanent Account Number or e-PAN is simply a digitally formatted PAN, equally valid as its physical counterpart. Notably, the e-PAN card contains a QR code with all your details, including name, date of birth, photograph and a unique 10-digit alphanumeric code.
Understanding the Need for an Instant e-PAN
Traditionally, acquiring a PAN card involved time-consuming paperwork. With modern technological advancements, it is now possible to obtain an instant e-PAN. This streamlined service is not only swift but also free of charge for individuals who haven’t been issued a PAN.
Prerequisites for Instant E-PAN Card
Before you get started with the instant PAN card application procedure, it is essential that you learn about certain prerequisites. An applicant must have the Aadhaar card and a mobile number that is registered with his/her Aadhaar card. Notably, this registered number plays a crucial role in OTP (one-time password) verification during the application process. It is also vital to ensure that you do not already hold a PAN, as this facility is solely available for first-time applicants.
Steps to Apply for an Instant e-PAN Card
Applying for an instant PAN through Aadhaar is a hassle-free process. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Visit the income tax e-filing website
Go to https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/
Step 2: Select ‘Instant E-PAN’ under ‘Quick Links’
Once you arrive at the website’s main page, locate the ‘Instant e-PAN’ tab and click on it.
Step 3: Input Aadhaar details
You will then have to click on ‘Get New e-PAN’. After this, you will be prompted to provide your Aadhaar details and click on ‘I confirm that’.
Step 4: Verification via OTP
After the submission of Aadhaar details, an OTP will be dispatched to your registered mobile number linked to Aadhaar. This OTP needs to be entered for verification when prompted.
Step 5: Cross-check Aadhaar details
Once verified, your Aadhaar details will appear on the screen. Carefully verify this information before proceeding further.
Step 6: Authenticate e-KYC data
If your Aadhaar details are correct, proceed by clicking on ‘Confirm and continue with e-KYC data’.
Step 7: Submission and generate instant e-PAN
On confirmation of your details, the application will be automatically submitted. The e-PAN will be generated and dispatched to your registered e-mail address upon successful application.
Common mistakes to avoid while applying for an instant PAN card
Acquiring an instant e-PAN card is a straightforward process, provided you avoid certain common pitfalls. Here are a few prevalent errors and ways to avoid them:
Incorrect Aadhaar details
Inputting incorrect Aadhaar details is one of the most frequent errors that applicants make. Ensure that you correctly enter the Aadhaar number and cross-verify it before proceeding to the next step.
Ignoring OTP verification
During the instant PAN card application process, an authentication OTP is sent to your registered mobile number. Many times, applicants overlook this step, leading to a failed application. Please pay close attention to the OTP and enter it promptly when required.
Incomplete form submission
Often, applicants do not fully complete the instant PAN card application form, leaving certain fields blank. This leads to application rejection. Ensure that you fill in all the fields, providing complete and accurate information.
Incorrect personal information
Your personal details must match those provided on your Aadhaar card. Any discrepancy, such as an incorrect date of birth or misspelt name, can lead to application rejection.
Multiple applications
Only one application per person is permitted. Applying more than once using the same Aadhaar number will lead to the application being rejected. Be patient and wait for the outcome of your application before attempting to apply again.
With the advent of ‘Digital India,’ most services have become easily accessible. Just a few clicks and 10 minutes of your time are all that is needed for you to get your e-PAN. The hassle-free procedure of getting your e-PAN circumvents all the old problems of waiting in lines and more. It is to be noted that you can ensure a smooth and successful application process for your instant PAN card through Aadhaar.