A PAN (Permanent Account Number) card is one of the most important identity documents in India. It serves as proof for income tax filing, financial transactions, banking, investments, and other official purposes. However, accidents happen, and your PAN card may get damaged, torn, faded, or otherwise unreadable.
The Income Tax Department allows taxpayers to reissue or duplicate PAN cards without changing their existing PAN number. This ensures continuity in financial activities while retaining the same identity number. This guide explains the full process for reissuing a PAN card, required documents, fees, timelines, and useful tips.
Why You May Need a PAN Card Reissue
Several situations may necessitate a PAN card reissue:
- Physical damage: The card is torn, scratched, or broken.
- Faded printing: Important details like name, PAN number, or photograph are unreadable.
- Smart card issues: Microchip or embedded technology is damaged.
- Water or fire exposure: Moisture, spills, or fire can render the card unusable.
Even when damaged, the PAN number remains valid, but a new card is needed for official identification.
Modes of PAN Card Reissue
You can request a duplicate PAN card through online or offline modes. Both methods are convenient and simple.
1. Online Reissue Process
- Visit the official NSDL e-Gov (https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com) or UTIITSL (https://www.pan.utiitsl.com) portal.
- Select Reprint PAN Card / Reissue PAN.
- Enter your PAN number, Aadhaar number, and other personal details.
- Upload scanned copies of identity proof and address proof (if Aadhaar is not linked).
- Pay the reissue fee online via net banking, UPI, or credit/debit card.
- Submit the application and note down the acknowledgement number to track status.
2. Offline Reissue Process
- Download the PAN card correction/reissue form (Form 49A for residents, 49AA for foreign citizens).
- Fill in the required details carefully.
- Attach self-attested photocopies of proof of identity, address, and date of birth.
- Submit the form at the nearest PAN service center along with the applicable fee.
- Keep the acknowledgement receipt for future reference and tracking.
Documents Required for PAN Card Reissue
To get your damaged PAN card reissued, you must provide valid documents. Commonly accepted proofs include:
| Document Type | Options |
|---|---|
| Proof of Identity (POI) | Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License, Bank Passbook with photo |
| Proof of Address (POA) | Aadhaar Card, Passport, Utility bills (electricity, water, or landline, not older than 3 months), Driving License |
| Proof of Date of Birth (DOB, if needed) | Birth Certificate, Passport, Matriculation certificate, Aadhaar Card |
Note: If your PAN is already linked with Aadhaar, the Aadhaar itself serves as POI, POA, and DOB proof, simplifying the process.
Fees for PAN Card Reissue
The cost of a duplicate PAN card depends on your communication address:
| PAN Delivery Location | Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Within India | ₹110 |
| Outside India | ₹1020 |
Payment can be made online or offline, depending on your submission method.
Timeline for PAN Card Reissue
After submitting the application, the reissue process generally follows this timeline:
| Process Step | Time Taken (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Application verification | 2–3 working days |
| Printing of duplicate PAN card | 3–5 working days |
| Delivery through Speed Post | 7–15 working days |
| Total duration | 12–20 working days |
Note: Delivery time may vary depending on location and postal efficiency.
Important Things to Remember
- Your PAN number remains the same; only a duplicate card is issued.
- Ensure the details entered in the application match your Aadhaar and other ID proofs.
- Track your PAN reissue status using the acknowledgement number.
- Keep a scanned copy of your PAN card for emergency purposes.
- Online applications are faster, especially if Aadhaar is linked.
How Aadhaar Helps in PAN Reissue
Linking Aadhaar with PAN significantly simplifies the reissue process:
- Aadhaar serves as proof of identity, address, and date of birth.
- No need to upload multiple documents if Aadhaar details are correct.
- Paperless verification is possible using Aadhaar OTP.
- Faster processing and delivery as verification is automated.
Tracking Your Reissued PAN Card
Once submitted, you can track the status of your duplicate PAN card:
- Visit NSDL e-Gov or UTIITSL portal.
- Enter your acknowledgement number to check processing status.
- After dispatch, use India Post Speed Post tracking to monitor delivery.
- Delivery updates usually include In Transit, Out for Delivery, or Delivered.
Advantages of PAN Reissue
- Continuity: Your PAN number remains valid, avoiding disruption in banking or tax activities.
- Safety: A new card ensures your identity details are clear and readable.
- Convenience: Online reissue allows paperless submission.
- Official Proof: Maintains uninterrupted use of PAN as identity proof for financial transactions.
Tips for Smooth PAN Card Reissue
- Always keep acknowledgement number safe for tracking.
- Use Aadhaar-linked applications for faster processing.
- Submit clear and self-attested documents to avoid rejection.
- Update your communication address accurately to ensure delivery.
- Retain scanned copies of all submitted documents for records.
Wrapping Up
Damaging your PAN card is not a reason to worry. The Income Tax Department provides convenient online and offline methods to get a duplicate PAN card reissued. By keeping documents ready, using Aadhaar for verification, and tracking the application using your acknowledgement number, you can receive your new PAN card in 12–20 working days.
Ensuring that your PAN card is intact and readable is crucial for tax compliance, banking, investments, and official identification. Timely reissue of a damaged PAN card prevents disruption in financial activities and maintains the validity of your identity proof.
FAQs on PAN Card Reissue
Q1: Will my PAN number change if I apply for a duplicate card?
A = No, your PAN number remains the same; only a new card is issued.
Q2: How long does it take to get a reissued PAN card?
A = It usually takes 12–20 working days, depending on verification and delivery.
Q3: Can I apply for PAN reissue if I lost the original card?
A = Yes, the reissue process is identical for both lost and damaged PAN cards.
Q4: Is Aadhaar mandatory for PAN reissue?
A = No, Aadhaar is not mandatory, but linking it simplifies the process and reduces document submission.