Can You Get an e-PAN Card in Just 10 Minutes?

In today's swiftly changing world, accessing financial documents such as the Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is vital. Traditionally, getting a PAN card involved lengthy processes. However, the new instant e-PAN service simplifies this, allowing individuals to obtain a PAN card in just 10 minutes using their Aadhaar card for e-KYC. Here's how you can quickly secure your e-PAN card for various financial activities.

What is an Instant PAN Card?

The instant e-PAN is a digital PAN issued promptly and free of charge by the Income Tax Department of India, leveraging Aadhaar-based e-KYC. It serves the same function as a traditional PAN card, facilitating income tax payments, ITR filing, bank account openings, and applications for debit or credit cards.

Understanding Instant PAN Allotment

Using Aadhaar for PAN Issuance
The instant PAN process streamlines applications by allowing Aadhaar holders easy access to a PAN card. It comes as a PDF with a QR code, containing the applicant's demographic information, downloadable from the e-filing portal using a 15-digit acknowledgment number. A copy is sent to the registered email.

Eligibility Criteria for Instant e-PAN

• Must not already have a PAN card.
• Applicants should be adults.
• Possess a valid Aadhaar card linked to a mobile number.
• Aadhaar must have a complete date of birth (DD/MM/YYYY).
• Cannot be a Representative Assessee under Income Tax Act section 160.

Steps to Apply for an Instant PAN Card with Aadhaar

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Visit the Income Tax Department Portal.
2. Select ‘Instant E-PAN’ in ‘Quick Links’ for PAN allotment.
3. Click ‘Get New PAN’ to continue.
4. Provide Aadhaar number for PAN and validate details.
5. Verify with OTP sent to the registered mobile number.
6. If needed, verify email following the instructions.

Upon Aadhaar submission, an acknowledgment number is issued for tracking PAN status; the PAN is ready in minutes and emailed to you.

Checking Status and Downloading Instant PAN

1. Return to the e-filing homepage.
2. Select ‘Instant E-PAN’ and proceed to 'Check Status/Download PAN'.
3. Submit Aadhaar number and captcha, validate with OTP.
4. After successful submission, download your PAN as a PDF within 10 minutes.

Note: The PAN PDF is password-protected with your birthdate (DDMMYYYY) for added security.

Benefits of Instant PAN Card with Aadhaar

• Quick Processing: Obtain your PAN card in 10 minutes.
• No Fees: Completely free service, easing financial strain.
• Convenience: Fully online process, no physical visits needed.
• Accessibility: Always available via the e-filing portal.
• Versatility: Functions like a regular PAN card for financial and legal matters.

Conclusion

The instant PAN card is a groundbreaking service from the Income Tax Department, making essential document acquisition easy. With Aadhaar-based e-KYC, obtaining a PAN is faster and simpler, giving more people access to their PAN cards effortlessly for tasks like tax filings, bank accounts, or credit applications. Follow this guide to gain your PAN card and enjoy its benefits. Use ClearTax services with code FIFTY50 for a 50% discount on tax filing, ensuring efficient and timely submissions.