In the digital world, every individual needs constant access to their personal information. That is why the government has launched several digital platforms allowing users to link multiple accounts and stay updated. One such platform is the e-Tax Return (ETRP), which covers several documents related to taxes and income. The PAN card number is a reference number issued by the Income Tax department to track transactions linked to an individual or a business entity. An Aadhaar number, on the other hand, is a 12-digit unique identity number issued by the UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) for Indian residents. An Aadhaar PAN link enables taxpayers to file their returns easily without spending too much time on unnecessary procedures.
Did you know?
The first UID number was granted to a resident of Nandurbar, Maharashtra, on September 29, 2010.
Also read: 10 Best Business Ideas to Start Under ₹5 Lakhs Investment
What Is Aadhaar PAN Linking?
PAN card link to Aadhaar card is necessary. PAN is a ten-digit alphanumeric number issued by the government to track income-related transactions. The PAN card has become mandatory for taxpayers to mention on their income tax returns (ITR). While as an Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identity number issued by the UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India). The main purpose of Aadhaar is to serve as proof of identity and a proof of address for an Indian resident. Aadhaar-PAN linking is a simple procedure that can be done through the income tax website. It requires taxpayers to enter their PAN card number, Aadhaar card number, name as per Aadhaar, and the Verify-n-Save (VNS) OTP sent to the registered mobile number.
Why Should You Link Aadhaar with PAN Card?
Taxpayers can file their ITR much faster after Aadhaar is linked with PAN. If a person has filed the ITR before linking Aadhaar with PAN, then the ITR will be considered invalid. It will thus be a hassle to link Aadhaar with PAN at the last minute. Another reason to link Aadhaar and PAN is that it will be easier to track your ITR and audit history after linking these two cards. It will be easier for the government to track down tax evaders and check corruption in the system. If you want to buy a new property or open a bank account, you must provide your Aadhaar number. Linking Aadhaar with PAN will make the process easier because banks and property dealers can confirm your identity quickly. If a person has filed the ITR before linking Aadhaar with PAN, then the ITR will be considered invalid as the PAN card is mandatory for filing the ITR.
How to Link Aadhaar with PAN?
All Indian residents must possess an Aadhaar number. PAN (Permanent Account Number) is used for filing income tax returns and other financial transactions.
In order to encourage compliance with the income tax laws, the Government of India has made it mandatory to link Aadhaar with PAN. Linking Aadhaar with PAN is quite simple and can be done online and offline.
Online Process:
All you need is your Aadhaar number, your PAN number, and an email address. Here are the steps you need to follow:
1. Go to the e-filing website of the Income Tax Department
2. Login using your user ID, password, and date of birth. If you don't have an account, you must create one. If previously registered, the Income Tax department may have linked your PAN and Aadhaar. In that case, you can see ‘Linked’ with a check mark.
3. The non-registered users need to visit www.incometax.gov.in and select ’Link Aadhar.’
Also read: MOMO Franchise - Know About Momo Business and the Best MOMO Franchise in India
4. Simply click on ‘Link Aadhaar’ on the e-Filing website.
5. Now, enter all the mandatory details required to link your Aadhaar number with your PAN card.
6. Once your Aadhaar is linked with your PAN, you will see a confirmation message on the screen.
Offline Process:
While it is possible to do this online, an offline process can also be followed. Here are the steps to link Aadhaar with PAN offline:
1. Get a physical copy of the Aadhaar-PAN linking form from a nearby PAN service provider or the website of the Income Tax Department.
2. Fill out the form with all the required information, including your details, Aadhaar number, and your PAN number.
3. Make sure that you have photocopies of both your Aadhaar card and PAN card before you submit the form. These are needed for verification purposes.
4. Once you have submitted the form, you will need to provide your biometrics (fingerprints or iris scan) at a nearby UIDAI centre. This is necessary to complete the linking process.
Why Is There a Deadline for Aadhaar-PAN Linking?
People who want their ITRs to be valid must link their Aadhaar with their PAN cards before the deadline. There are a few reasons why the government has set this deadline which is 31st March, 2023.
- First, by linking the two identification numbers, the government can track an individual's financial transactions better. It is important in the fight against tax evasion and black money.
- Second, linking the two numbers will also help to prevent identity theft and fraud. It is because it will be more difficult for someone to obtain a PAN using false information if they also need to link it to their Aadhaar number.
- Finally, the government believes that this linkage will help to improve the accuracy of data about taxpayers. This, in turn, will make it easier to administer tax laws and collect taxes effectively.
The bottom line is that there are several good reasons for the government to set a deadline for Aadhaar-PAN linking. Indian citizens who have not yet linked their numbers should do so as soon as possible.
What If You've Missed the Deadline to Link Aadhaar and PAN?
If you've missed the deadline to link your Aadhaar and PAN, there's no need to panic. While the government has said that failure to do so will result in your PAN becoming inoperative, this doesn't mean that your card is completely cancelled. Instead, it will become invalid for certain transactions, such as filing taxes.
However, it's important to take action as soon as possible to avoid any inconvenience. You can easily link your Aadhaar and PAN by visiting the website of the Income Tax Department or by using the mobile app of the Unique Identification Authority of India. Simply enter your details and follow the instructions on the screen. Once you've linked your Aadhaar and PAN, you can rest assured that your PAN will remain valid for all purposes.
Some Important Points to Keep in Mind
1. The PAN card and Aadhaar card must be issued in the same person's name.
2. If a person has changed their name after marriage, they will have to link their Aadhaar card to their spouse’s PAN card.
3. A person will not be able to link their Aadhaar with their spouse’s PAN if they have divorced or separated.
4. You will need your Aadhaar number and PAN handy. You will also need to have access to an Internet-enabled device.
5. It is important to note that the linking process may not be successful if there is any discrepancy between the information provided in your PAN and Aadhaar, such as your name or date of birth. In such cases, you will need to correct the discrepancy before linking your Aadhaar and PAN again.
Also read: Benefits of Customised ERP Solutions for Your Business
Conclusion
Aadhaar linking with PAN card is mandatory for taxpayers to file their ITR. If a person fails to link these two cards before the deadline, they will not be able to file their ITR and will be penalised. The good news is that linking Aadhaar with PAN is very simple and can be completed in a few minutes. The Supreme Court of India made it mandatory to link PAN with Aadhaar for filing of ITR. As a result, every PAN holder must now have their PAN number linked to their 12-digit Aadhaar number.
However, there are still a large number of people who have not linked their PAN with their Aadhaar. Those who do not link their PAN with their Aadhaar by the deadline may face difficulties in filing their taxes or applying for loans. Therefore, it is in everyone's best interest to ensure that they complete this process as soon as possible.
Follow Khatabook for the latest updates, news blogs, and articles related to micro, small and medium businesses (MSMEs), business tips, income tax, GST, salary, and accounting.
