How to get a PAN card in India: Basic Permanent Account Number Queries answered

PAN Card is one of the most important documents every earning citizen of the country should possess. It is a must for filing income tax returns. To answer some of the most basic queries related to PAN, the income tax department has undertaken online initiatives. The Tax Information Network (TIN) website of the Income Tax department answers some of the basic but relevant questions related to PAN. Take a look:

How do I apply for PAN?

You can apply for PAN by filling up Application for Allotment of Permanent Account Number (PAN application form). The forms are -

- Form 49A (for Indian Citizens)
- Form 49AA (for Foreign Citizens)

PAN application can be made either online through NSDL website www.tin-nsdl.com (Click here to apply for PAN online) or through any of the NSDL TIN-Facilitation Centres/PAN Centres.

Can I make an application for PAN on Plain Paper?

No. Application for PAN can be made only be done using the prescribed format as notified by Central Board of Direct Taxes, The notified forms are as under

1. Form 49A (for Indian Citizen)

2. Form 49AA (for Foreign Citizen).

Where can I obtain PAN application form?

You can obtain PAN application form from any NSDL TIN-Facilitation Centre (TIN-FC)/ PAN Centre or any other stationery vendors providing such forms. The same can be downloaded from NSDL-TIN website. Click here to download the form. 

Are there any charges for obtaining PAN application form?

No. The form is freely downloadable from NSDL e-Gov-TIN website. You can also obtain the form from any NSDL e-Gov TIN Facilitation Center (TIN-FC)/PAN Center free of cost.

Where should I submit my PAN application?

You can submit your duly filled and signed PAN application form along with the supporting documents to any of the TIN-FCs or PAN Centres managed by NSDL e-Gov. However, if applied online, duly signed and photo affixed acknowledgement receipt alongwith supporting documents should be sent to below address:

INCOME TAX PAN SERVICES UNIT
(Managed by NSDL e-Governance Infrastructure Limited) 

5th Floor, Mantri Sterling, Plot No. 341, 
Survey No. 997/8, Model Colony, 
Near Deep Bungalow Chowk, 
Pune - 411 016

SBI Fixed Deposit calculator: 

How do I fill the PAN application form?

You should fill the application form legibly in English capital letters and preferably with black ink. Read all the instructions before filling up PAN application form.

Are two photographs compulsory for making an application for PAN?

Yes. 'Individual' applicants should affix two recent colour photographs with white background (size 3.5 cm x 2.5 cm) in the space provided on the form. The photographs should not be stapled or clipped to the form. The applicant should sign across the photograph affixed on the left side of the form in such a manner that portion of signature is on photo as well as on form. The clarity of image on PAN card will depend on the quality and clarity of photograph affixed on the form.

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Is it compulsory to mention telephone number/email ID on PAN application form?

It is mandatory for the applicants to mention either their "Telephone number" or valid "e-mail ID" so that they can be contacted in case of any discrepancy in the application and/or for receiving PAN through e-mail.

a. If the landline telephone number is mentioned, it is necessary to mention country code (ISD code) and STD code. In case of mobile number, country code(ISD code) should be mentioned.

b. If email ID is mentioned, PAN will be communicated on email ID after it is allotted by the Income Tax Department.