A Permanent Account Number (PAN) card, commonly issued to Indian citizens, is crucial for identity verification, preventing tax evasion, and aiding a transparent financial system in India. As stipulated in Regulation 114B of the Indian Tax Regulations, a PAN card is mandatory for any financial transactions in India. Failure to comply can result in significant penalties, highlighting the necessity of acquiring a PAN card with its unique ten-digit alphanumeric code.

Before applying for a PAN card, it is important to understand the associated fees and charges, which vary based on residency status. This article explains PAN card fees, payment methods, and the refund process.

Understanding the PAN Card

Issued by the Income Tax Department, the PAN card is a laminated plastic card featuring your PAN, name, birthdate, father's/spouse's name, and a photograph. While serving as proof of identity and date of birth, it does not confirm nationality, as foreign investors also require a PAN.

The Importance of a PAN Card

Essential for financial record-keeping, especially for income-related transactions, the PAN card is mandatory for anyone with any source of income. Note that it does not indicate one's nationality.

Applying for a PAN Card

PAN cards can be applied for both online and offline:

• Online Application: Access the Protean or UTITSL portals to submit necessary documents and pay an approximate fee of INR 93 (excluding GST) for Indian addresses and INR 864 (excluding GST) for foreign addresses. Fees may differ based on the application method and type.
• Offline Application: Visit a center, fill out forms, and submit documents. Ensure you understand that fees for PAN applications vary based on application type and applicant location.

PAN Card Fees for Indian Citizens

For Indian citizens:

• Online Application: INR 101 (including GST)
• Offline Application: INR 107 (including GST)
• Correction/Re-issuance: INR 50 (including GST)
• Duplicate PAN Cards: INR 50 (including GST)

PAN Card Fees for Foreign Citizens

For foreign citizens:

• Online Application: INR 1011 (including GST)
• Offline Application: INR 1017 (including GST)
• Correction/Re-issuance: INR 959 (including GST)
• Duplicate PAN Cards: INR 959 (including GST)

Reprinting/Correction Fees

For corrections or reprint due to damage, fees are:

• Within India: INR 50 (including GST)
• Outside India: INR 959 (including GST)

e-PAN Card Fees

With digital transactions increasing, the option for an e-PAN card is available, priced between INR 66 and INR 72 (including GST) for both Indian and foreign nationals.

Payment Modes for PAN Card Fees

Various methods exist for paying PAN card fees:

Online Payments

• Credit/Debit Card: Payments through NSDL or UTIITSL websites.
• Net Banking: Payments via banking sites.
• E-wallets: Use options like Mobikwik, Freecharge, and Paytm.

Offline Payments

• Demand Draft: Made payable to NSDL-PAN, Mumbai.
• Cheque or Cash: Accepted when submitting physical applications.

Ensure correct fee payment as they are non-refundable.

PAN Card Refund Process

PAN card refunds may be applicable in cases of:

• Overpayment.
• Excess payment beyond requirement.
• Application rejection post fee submission.

Steps for Refund Request

1. Visit official PAN card application sites (NSDL or UTIITSL).
2. Fill the refund request form with details like the application number, payment date, and transaction ID.
3. Provide valid bank details for refund processing.

Application on Behalf of Others

Entities allowed to apply for and pay PAN fees on behalf of others include:

• Chartered Accountants: On behalf of clients.
• Parents for Minors: For their underage children.
• Authorized Agents: With proper authorization letters and documentation.
• Employers: For their employees.

Changing Mobile Number on PAN Card

To update your mobile number:

• Visit the PAN Card portal: www.incometaxindia.gov.in.
• Log in using credentials.
• Go to "My Profile" > "Settings" and edit contact information.
• Verify with the OTP sent to the new mobile number and email.

Conclusion

A PAN card is vital for multiple financial and legal activities in India. Knowing the application process, fee structure, and payment options is key to acquiring and maintaining your PAN card. Regularly check the official websites for the latest updates on the fee structure.

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Frequently Asked Questions

• Can a PAN card be obtained in five days? Typically, the process takes 15-20 days, though an instant PAN option is available within 48 hours.
• Which PAN card form should Indian citizens use? Indian citizens should fill Form 49A, applicable for both individuals and incorporated entities.
• Is PAN card proof of nationality? No, PAN cards do not confirm nationality, although essential for any business in India.
• Documents needed for PAN application? You require address and identity proof such as Aadhaar card, Voter ID, Ration Card with photo, Passport, or Driving License. Documents can be uploaded online via NSDL or UTIITSL portals.
• How long to receive a PAN card? The PAN card is typically dispatched within 48 hours post-application, with the physical card arriving in about 15-20 days.
• Can an instant PAN be issued using Aadhaar? Yes, by entering your Aadhaar and mobile number, you can generate an instant PAN.