In today's digital age, obtaining essential documents like a PAN card has become easier than ever. With the introduction of e-PAN or instant PAN card, individuals can now download their PAN card online within 48 hours, without any charges. This virtual PAN card carries all the necessary information of the cardholder and can be used for various purposes such as filing income tax returns, opening a savings account, applying for a debit or credit card, and more. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of downloading your e-PAN card from both the NSDL and UTIITSL portals.
Eligibility for Instant e-PAN
Before we delve into the process of downloading an e-PAN card, let's first understand the eligibility criteria for applying for one. The following requirements must be met:
- Individual taxpayers, not corporations, trusts, or associations, can apply for an instant pan card.
- An actual PAN card is not required for an applicant.
- A valid Aadhaar card is required for the application.
- The mobile phone number of the applicant must be connected to the Aadhaar card.
- A valid Aadhaar card is required for all applicants.
Downloading e-PAN Card from NSDL
The NSDL portal offers a convenient way to download your e-PAN card. There are two methods to do so – using the Acknowledgement Number or using the PAN number. Let's explore both methods in detail:
Method 1: Using the Acknowledgement Number
- Visit the NSDL website
- On the homepage, select the 'Download e-PAN/e-PAN XML' option.
- Now, you will be presented with two choices – 'Acknowledgement Number' or 'PAN'. Choose the 'Acknowledgement Number' option.
- Fill in the required details, including your Acknowledgement Number, Full Name, Date of Birth, Captcha code, and click on 'Submit'.
- Once the details are verified, you can download your e-PAN card instantly.
Method 2: Using the PAN Number
- Visit the NSDL website
- Select the 'Download e-PAN/e-PAN XML' option on the homepage.
- This time, choose the 'PAN' option.
- Enter your PAN Number, Full Name, Date of Birth, Captcha code, and click on 'Submit'.
- After the verification process, you can download your e-PAN card immediately.
Downloading e-PAN Card from UTIITSL
UTIITSL (UTI Infrastructure Technology and Services Limited) is an alternate gateway for applying for a new PAN card or making changes to an existing PAN card. Here's how you can download your e-PAN card from the UTIITSL portal:
- Go to the UTIITSL ePAN downloading webpage
- On the webpage, enter the required information such as PAN, Date of Birth/Incorporation, GSTIN (optional), and the security code. Then, click on 'Submit'.
- Verify that the mobile number and email address displayed against your PAN are correct.
- Enter the security code and check the declaration box.
- An OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent to your registered phone number/email ID. Enter the OTP and click on 'Submit'.
- If the PAN issuance duration exceeds one month, you may be required to pay a fee of Rs. 8.26 online.
- Once the processing is complete, you can instantly obtain your e-PAN card.
Downloading Instant PAN Card through Aadhaar Card
If you prefer downloading your e-PAN card using your Aadhaar card number, follow the steps below:
- Visit the official website of Income Tax India.
- Select the "Instant E-PAN" option under the 'Quick Links' section.
- On the next page, choose the 'Check Status / Download PAN' option and click on 'Continue'. You will be redirected to a new page.
- Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and submit it.
- Authenticate your request by entering the OTP received on your registered phone number.
- Once your authentication is successful, you will be directed to a new page where you can view and download your e-PAN card.
Congratulations! You have successfully downloaded your e-PAN card using your Aadhaar card.
Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of how to download your e-PAN card from both the NSDL and UTIITSL portals, you can easily obtain this essential document hassle-free. Remember to keep your PAN card safe and secure as it is an essential identification document and is required for various financial and official transactions.