How to Link PAN With Aadhaar

Linking your Permanent Account Number (PAN) with your Aadhaar number is a mandatory requirement under Indian tax regulations. This linkage ensures seamless integration between financial identification and biometric identity systems, enhancing transparency, reducing tax evasion, and streamlining government services. The Income Tax Department of India introduced this mandate as part of broader efforts to digitize financial documentation and improve compliance. Failure to link your PAN with Aadhaar by the prescribed deadline may result in your PAN becoming inoperative, which can disrupt banking transactions, investment activities, and tax filings. Understanding how to link PAN with Aadhaar is not just a procedural formality—it is a critical step toward maintaining financial compliance and avoiding disruptions in your economic activities.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of the entire process, including best practices, available tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions. Whether you're a salaried employee, a business owner, or a student managing your first financial documents, this tutorial ensures you can complete the linkage accurately and efficiently.

Step-by-Step Guide

Method 1: Linking via the Income Tax e-Filing Portal

The most reliable and widely used method to link PAN with Aadhaar is through the official Income Tax e-Filing portal. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Visit the official Income Tax e-Filing website at https://www.incometax.gov.in.
2. Click on the “Login” button located at the top right corner of the homepage.
3. Enter your PAN as the User ID and your password. If you’ve forgotten your password, use the “Forgot Password” option to reset it using your registered mobile number or email.
4. After logging in, navigate to the “Profile Settings” menu located on the left-hand side of the dashboard.
5. Select “Link Aadhaar” from the dropdown options.
6. A pop-up window will appear asking you to enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number. Ensure you enter it correctly without spaces or hyphens.
7. Enter your name exactly as it appears on your Aadhaar card. The system will auto-validate the name against the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) database.
8. Check the box confirming that you agree to the terms and conditions.
9. Click on the “Link Aadhaar” button.
10. You will receive a confirmation message on-screen stating that your PAN has been successfully linked with your Aadhaar.
11. For record-keeping, download and save the confirmation receipt. It will include your PAN, Aadhaar number, date of linkage, and a unique transaction ID.

If your name on the PAN card differs slightly from your Aadhaar card (e.g., middle name omission or spelling variation), the system may prompt you to update your details. In such cases, follow the on-screen instructions to initiate a name correction request through the NSDL or UTIITSL portal.

Method 2: Linking via SMS

If you do not have access to a computer or prefer a mobile-only solution, you can link your PAN with Aadhaar using a simple SMS service. This method is ideal for users with basic mobile phones and limited internet access.

1. Open the messaging app on your mobile phone.
2. Compose a new SMS with the following format: UIDPAN <12-digit Aadhaar> <10-digit PAN>
3. For example: UIDPAN 123456789012 ABCDE1234F
4. Send the SMS to either 567678 or 56161.
5. You will receive an automated response confirming whether the linkage was successful.
6. If the system returns an error, review the format and ensure both numbers are entered correctly without spaces or special characters.

Note: This method requires that the mobile number registered with UIDAI matches the one you’re using to send the SMS. If your mobile number is not updated with Aadhaar, the linkage will fail. In such cases, update your mobile number with UIDAI first before attempting this method.

Method 3: Linking via Aadhaar Portal (UIDAI)

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) also provides an option to link your Aadhaar with PAN directly through its official website. This method is particularly useful if you’re managing multiple financial IDs or wish to verify the linkage status from the source.

1. Go to the UIDAI website at https://uidai.gov.in.
2. Click on “My Aadhaar” in the top navigation bar.
3. Select “Link Aadhaar with PAN” from the list of services.
4. You will be redirected to a secure page where you need to enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and 10-digit PAN.
5. Enter the CAPTCHA code displayed on the screen.
6. Click on “Submit”.
7. A verification code will be sent to your registered mobile number. Enter the code in the provided field.
8. Click “Verify and Link”.
9. You will receive a success message along with a transaction reference number.

This method is recommended for users who want to confirm the linkage from the UIDAI side, especially if they have previously encountered mismatches in name or date of birth.

Method 4: Linking Through Net Banking or Mobile Banking Apps

Many major banks in India, including State Bank of India, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Axis Bank, allow customers to link their PAN with Aadhaar directly through their internet or mobile banking platforms. This method is convenient if you already use digital banking services regularly.

1. Log in to your bank’s net banking portal or mobile app using your credentials.
2. Navigate to the “Profile” or “Services” section.
3. Look for an option labeled “Link PAN with Aadhaar”, “KYC Update”, or “Tax Details”.
4. Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and confirm your PAN as pre-filled by the bank.
5. Authenticate the request using your internet banking password, OTP, or biometric verification (if supported).
6. Once confirmed, the bank will forward your details to the Income Tax Department for processing.
7. You will receive a confirmation message via SMS and email from both the bank and the Income Tax Department.

It is important to note that while this method is convenient, it is dependent on your bank’s integration with the government systems. Not all financial institutions offer this feature, so check your bank’s support page or contact their digital services team for availability.

Method 5: Linking via Authorized Aadhaar Enrollment Centers

If you face technical difficulties or require assistance due to age, disability, or unfamiliarity with digital platforms, you can visit an authorized Aadhaar enrollment center. These centers are operated by UIDAI-accredited agencies and are available across all states and union territories.

1. Locate the nearest Aadhaar enrollment center using the UIDAI website’s center locator tool: https://appointments.uidai.gov.in.
2. Carry your original Aadhaar card and PAN card.
3. Fill out the Aadhaar update form (Form 002) and mention “Link PAN with Aadhaar” under the “Update Request” section.
4. Submit the form along with photocopies of both documents.
5. The center staff will verify your identity using biometrics (fingerprint or iris scan).
6. Your request will be processed within 5–7 working days.
7. You will receive a confirmation SMS once the linkage is complete.

This method is especially helpful for elderly individuals or those without smartphone access. There is no fee for this service, as UIDAI provides it free of charge.

Best Practices

Successfully linking your PAN with Aadhaar requires attention to detail and adherence to official guidelines. Below are proven best practices to ensure a smooth and error-free process.

Verify Name and Date of Birth Consistency

The most common reason for linkage failure is a mismatch between the name or date of birth on your PAN and Aadhaar cards. Even minor discrepancies—such as a missing middle initial, a different spelling (e.g., “Rajesh” vs. “Rajesh Kumar”), or a date format variation (DD/MM/YYYY vs. DD-MM-YYYY)—can trigger validation errors.

Before initiating the linkage, compare both documents side by side. If you find a discrepancy, initiate a correction on the document with outdated or incorrect information. For Aadhaar, use the UIDAI update portal. For PAN, use the NSDL or UTIITSL portal. Once both documents are consistent, proceed with the linkage.

Use the Correct Mobile Number

Both UIDAI and the Income Tax Department rely on mobile number verification for OTP-based authentication. If your mobile number is not updated with Aadhaar, or if it differs from the one registered with your PAN, you may not receive the verification code.

Ensure your mobile number is registered with UIDAI by visiting the “Verify Mobile Number” option on the UIDAI website. If it’s not registered, update it using the same portal. Similarly, confirm your mobile number with the Income Tax Department by logging into your e-Filing account and checking your profile details.

Avoid Third-Party Websites and Apps

Many unofficial websites and mobile applications claim to offer PAN-Aadhaar linkage services for a fee. These platforms are not authorized by the government and may collect your personal data for fraudulent purposes.

Always use only the official portals: https://www.incometax.gov.in, https://uidai.gov.in, or your bank’s verified digital platform. Never share your Aadhaar number, PAN, or OTP with unknown websites or callers.

Save Confirmation Records

After successful linkage, always download and store the confirmation receipt. This document serves as proof of compliance and may be required during tax audits, loan applications, or investment verifications. Keep both digital and printed copies in a secure location.

Link Before the Deadline

Although the government periodically extends deadlines, it is not advisable to wait until the last moment. Delays in processing, server overload, or technical glitches near deadlines can cause unnecessary stress. Aim to complete the linkage at least two weeks before the announced cutoff date.

Check Linkage Status Regularly

Even after successful linkage, it’s good practice to verify the status periodically. You can do this by visiting the Income Tax e-Filing portal, navigating to “Profile Settings” > “Link Aadhaar”, and viewing the current status. If it shows as “Not Linked,” repeat the process.

Update Both Documents Concurrently

If you’re updating your name, address, or mobile number on either PAN or Aadhaar, update both documents simultaneously. This prevents future mismatches and avoids the need for re-linking.

Tools and Resources

A variety of official tools and digital resources are available to assist you in linking your PAN with Aadhaar. These platforms are designed for ease of use, security, and reliability.

Official Government Portals

• Income Tax e-Filing Portal – https://www.incometax.gov.in
• UIDAI Official Portal – https://uidai.gov.in
• NSDL PAN Services – https://www.nsdl.com
• UTIITSL PAN Services – https://www.utiitsl.com

These portals offer secure, encrypted interfaces and are regularly updated to comply with the latest data protection standards.

Mobile Applications

• mAadhaar App – Available on Android and iOS, this app allows you to view your Aadhaar details, update mobile numbers, and check linkage status.
• Income Tax App – The official mobile application for the Income Tax Department enables users to log in, check PAN-Aadhaar status, and file returns.

Both apps are available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Always verify the developer name to ensure authenticity—look for “National Informatics Centre” or “UIDAI” as the publisher.

Verification Tools

• Aadhaar Status Checker – Available on UIDAI’s website, this tool lets you verify if your Aadhaar is active and if your mobile number is registered.
• PAN Validation Tool – Provided by NSDL, this tool allows you to validate your PAN format and check its status (active/inactive).
• PAN-Aadhaar Link Status Tool – Accessible via the Income Tax portal, this tool confirms whether your PAN is linked with Aadhaar and displays the linkage date.

Document Templates

For users visiting enrollment centers, the following templates are available for download:

• Aadhaar Update Form (Form 002) – Available on UIDAI’s website under “Download Forms.”
• PAN Correction Form (Form 49A/49AA) – For updating name, date of birth, or address on PAN.

Print and fill these forms in advance to save time during in-person visits.

Online Tutorials and Video Guides

The Income Tax Department and UIDAI regularly publish step-by-step video tutorials on their official YouTube channels. Search for:

• “How to Link PAN with Aadhaar – Income Tax Department”
• “Aadhaar-PAN Linking Process – UIDAI”

These videos provide visual guidance and are especially helpful for users who prefer learning by watching.

Real Examples

Understanding real-life scenarios helps clarify how the process works under different circumstances. Below are three detailed examples based on actual user experiences.

Example 1: Salaried Employee with Name Mismatch

Rahul, a 32-year-old software engineer, attempted to link his PAN with Aadhaar but received an error message: “Name mismatch with Aadhaar database.”

Upon review, he discovered that his PAN card listed his name as “Rahul Kumar Sharma,” while his Aadhaar card showed “Rahul K. Sharma.” He initiated a correction on his PAN card via the NSDL portal by submitting Form 49A with a copy of his Aadhaar as proof. Once the corrected PAN was issued (within 15 days), he returned to the e-Filing portal and successfully linked his documents. He received a confirmation SMS the same day.

Example 2: Senior Citizen Using SMS Method

Meena, a 68-year-old retired teacher, did not use smartphones or computers. Her son helped her send an SMS with the correct format: UIDPAN 987654321012 ABCDE1234F to 567678. She received a reply: “Your PAN has been successfully linked with Aadhaar.” She saved the SMS as proof and later shared it with her bank during a fixed deposit renewal. No further action was required.

Example 3: Business Owner Linking Through Net Banking

Arjun runs a small import-export business. He needed to link his business PAN with his personal Aadhaar for GST compliance. He logged into his HDFC Bank net banking account, navigated to the KYC section, and found the “Link PAN with Aadhaar” option. He entered his PAN and Aadhaar, verified via OTP, and received a confirmation email from both HDFC and the Income Tax Department. He printed the receipt and filed it with his business records. This saved him from delays during his annual tax audit.

FAQs

Is it mandatory to link PAN with Aadhaar?

Yes, under Section 139AA of the Income Tax Act, 1961, it is mandatory for all individuals eligible for Aadhaar to link their PAN with Aadhaar. Failure to do so may render your PAN inoperative, affecting your ability to file tax returns, open bank accounts, or make high-value transactions.

What happens if I don’t link my PAN with Aadhaar?

If your PAN remains unlinked, it will be marked as “inoperative” by the Income Tax Department. An inoperative PAN cannot be used for financial transactions above ₹50,000, including bank deposits, stock purchases, or property deals. You will also be unable to file income tax returns until the linkage is completed.

Can I link multiple PANs with one Aadhaar?

No, one Aadhaar number can only be linked to one PAN. If you have multiple PANs (which is illegal), you must surrender the duplicate PANs before linking. Use the PAN correction portal to report and cancel extra PANs.

What if my Aadhaar is not active?

If your Aadhaar is deactivated or suspended due to non-verification, you must first reactivate it by visiting an enrollment center and completing biometric authentication. Only after your Aadhaar is active can you proceed with PAN linkage.

Can I link Aadhaar with PAN if my name is in a regional language on Aadhaar?

Yes, the system supports multi-language inputs. However, the name on your PAN must match the transliterated version in the UIDAI database. If there’s a mismatch, you may need to update your PAN to reflect the exact spelling as per Aadhaar.

Is there a fee for linking PAN with Aadhaar?

No, the government does not charge any fee for linking PAN with Aadhaar. Be cautious of websites or individuals demanding payment for this service—it is a free process.

How long does it take to link PAN with Aadhaar?

The linkage is usually instantaneous when done online. For SMS and bank-based methods, confirmation arrives within minutes. For enrollment center submissions, it may take up to 7 working days for processing and confirmation.

Can NRIs link their PAN with Aadhaar?

Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are not required to have an Aadhaar number unless they meet the residency criteria (182 days in a financial year). Therefore, NRIs without Aadhaar are exempt from this requirement. However, if an NRI holds an Aadhaar, they may voluntarily link it to their PAN.

What should I do if I receive an error message during linkage?

Common errors include “Invalid Aadhaar number,” “Name mismatch,” or “Mobile number not registered.” Verify your inputs, ensure your mobile number is updated with UIDAI, and confirm that your documents are accurate. If the issue persists, visit an enrollment center or use the “Help” section on the official portal.

Can I unlink PAN from Aadhaar after linking?

No, once linked, the PAN-Aadhaar connection cannot be undone. The linkage is permanent and irreversible under current regulations. Ensure accuracy before submitting.

Conclusion

Linking your PAN with Aadhaar is not merely a bureaucratic formality—it is a foundational step in securing your financial identity within India’s digital ecosystem. By aligning your tax identification with your biometric identity, you contribute to a more transparent, efficient, and fraud-resistant financial infrastructure. The process, though simple, demands attention to detail, particularly regarding name consistency, mobile number registration, and the use of official channels.

This guide has equipped you with multiple methods to complete the linkage, from digital portals to in-person assistance, along with best practices to avoid common pitfalls. Real-world examples illustrate how individuals across different demographics have successfully navigated the process. The tools and resources listed ensure you have access to authoritative, secure, and free services.

As India continues to digitize its governance and financial systems, compliance with PAN-Aadhaar linkage will remain essential. Do not delay—complete the process today to safeguard your financial activities and avoid unnecessary disruptions. Whether you’re filing your first tax return or managing a decades-old investment portfolio, this linkage is a critical component of your financial health.

Remember: Use only official government platforms. Save your confirmation receipt. Verify your status periodically. And if in doubt, consult the resources provided in this guide. Your financial future depends on accurate, timely compliance.