PAN, Aadhaar linking! Here is how to link the 12-digit biometric via SMS

PAN, Aadhaar linking: To pay tax, getting a Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a must for every individual who has crossed the age limit of 18 years. PAN card is a major identification proof of a person and is needed either for higher studies, opening a business or even opening a bank account, train pass, having investment schemes like provident fund, mutual fund, fixed deposits and much more. However, there is one important rule which a citizen must follow. As per  Section 139AA, every person who is eligible to obtain Aadhaar is required to quote this number in the PAN application form.

But did you know there are certain services where PAN and Aadhaar linking is a must. For instance in case of filing Income Tax Return (ITR), you cannot do the procedure with just PAN alone. You will need Adhaar as well, because it is one mandatory identification needed by Income Tax Department. But to even file for ITR, you will need to first link Aadhaar with PAN.

There are two ways to link Adhaar with PAN. First one is using SMS facility, and second one is via e-Filing portal https://incometaxindiaefiling.gov.in. 

Here we are going to know, on how to link Aadhaar with PAN using SMS mode. 

Taxpayer who wants to link their Adhar number with PAN is required to send SMS to 567678 or 56161 in following format:

UIDPAN<space><12 digit Aadhaar><space><10 digit PAN>

Example of SMS to 567678 or 56161:

UIDPAN 111122223333 AAAPA9999Q

Aadhaar number will be linked with PAN if name of taxpayer is identical to Aadhaar and PAN.

If any person does not possess the Aadhaar Number but he had applied for the Aadhaar card then he or she can quote Enrolment ID of Aadhaar application Form. 

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Take note that, a resident person shall apply for PAN in form 49A and a non-resident person including a foreign company shall apply for allotment of PAN in form 49AA.