Overview
A Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a ten-character identifier issued by the income tax department. It is needed to file returns, open most bank accounts, make large transactions and register for GST. Companies and LLPs usually receive a PAN as part of incorporation.
A Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN) is a ten-character number that anyone who deducts or collects tax at source must have. It must be quoted on TDS challans, returns and certificates.
Mistakes in a PAN or TAN, such as a wrong name or date of birth, cause mismatches with banks and tax records, so we also help with corrections and linking.
Who needs what?
The rule of thumb is simple.
Usually a good fit if
- You are an individual, firm, trust or association without a PAN and need one for tax or banking.
- You pay salaries or make payments that attract TDS and have no TAN.
- Your PAN has a wrong name, date of birth or address and needs correction.
- You have lost your PAN card or need to link PAN with Aadhaar.
Think twice if
- You are an Indian resident individual with Aadhaar and need a PAN; the instant route may be quicker than a full application, and we will tell you if so.
Key benefits
Valid tax identity
Needed for returns, banking and registrations.
Required for TDS
A TAN is compulsory for deductors and avoids penalties.
Smooth banking
Matching names and details prevent account issues.
Accurate credit
A correct PAN means TDS credit reaches the right person.
Quick correction
We fix mismatches before they lead to rejected filings.
Single point of help
PAN, TAN and Aadhaar linking handled together.
What we need from you
What you need depends on who is applying.
Individual PAN
- Aadhaar card, or proof of identity and date of birth
- Proof of address
- Passport-size photograph
- Mobile number and email address
Firm, company, trust or other entity PAN
- Certificate of incorporation, partnership deed or trust deed
- PAN of the authorised signatory
- Address proof of the entity
- Authorisation letter for the signatory
TAN
- PAN of the entity or individual
- Address of the office from where tax will be deducted
- Details of the person responsible for deduction
- Entity registration proof where applicable
Corrections
- Existing PAN or TAN details
- Supporting proof for the corrected information
- Photograph and signature where required
How the process works
Identify the right application Same day
New PAN, new TAN, correction or reprint: we confirm which applies.
Prepare the application 1 day
We fill the application and gather the documents in the format the portal accepts.
Submit and pay the fee Same day
The application is submitted online with the official fee.
Authenticate 1 to 2 days
E-sign or document submission, as required for the type of applicant.
Processing 3 to 10 days
The income tax department processes the application and issues the number.
Receive and use the number On issue
You receive an acknowledgment and later the e-PAN or TAN allotment.
How long it takes
| Preparation and submission | 1 to 3 days |
| Processing by the department | 3 to 10 days |
| Overall | Roughly 1 to 2 weeks |
A PAN issued instantly on the basis of Aadhaar can be faster for eligible individuals.
After you receive it
A few small steps save trouble later.
- Link PAN and AadhaarA PAN that is not linked to Aadhaar can become inoperative, so check the status.
- Use the right number everywhereQuote the right PAN on bank, investment and tax forms.
- Quote TAN on deductionsUse it on TDS challans, returns and certificates.
- Keep details currentTell the department about changes in name, address or status.
- Protect itShare your PAN only where required and keep copies safe.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have more than one PAN?
No. Holding more than one PAN is not permitted. If you have duplicates, they should be surrendered.
Do companies need to apply separately for PAN and TAN?
A company or LLP usually receives a PAN and TAN during incorporation. Other entities need to apply separately.
Is TAN needed if I do not deduct tax?
No. TAN is only needed by people who deduct or collect tax at source.
What if my PAN has a spelling mistake?
A correction application fixes it, with supporting proof. We suggest correcting it promptly because mismatches cause rejected filings.
Is Aadhaar linking mandatory?
Yes for most individuals. A PAN not linked with Aadhaar can become inoperative, so we help with linking.
How long does it take?
Usually about one to two weeks. Instant PAN issue through Aadhaar can be quicker for eligible individuals.
This page is general information to help you prepare, not legal, tax or professional advice for your situation. Rules, forms, thresholds and due dates change, so we confirm the current position before we file anything for you. Taxswami Consultants is an independent professional services firm and is not a government body.