What is an e-PAN card?

An e-PAN is a digitally signed, password-protected electronic copy of your PAN card issued in a PDF format. It is a valid proof of PAN, just like the physical card.

Is the e-PAN card valid for all official purposes?

Yes, as per a circular from the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), the e-PAN is a legally valid proof of PAN for all purposes where a PAN card is required.

What is the password to open the downloaded e-PAN PDF file?

The password to open your e-PAN PDF is your date of birth in DDMMYYYY format (e.g., if your birth date is 24th September 1995, the password will be 24091995).

Is it free to download an e-PAN card?

Downloading an e-PAN is free if you do it within 30 days of its issuance. After 30 days, a nominal fee (around ₹8.26) is charged by portals like Protean (NSDL) and UTIITSL. The download from the Income Tax e-filing portal is free.

How many times can I download the e-PAN card after paying the fee?

Generally, after paying the fee on the NSDL or UTIITSL portal, you are allowed to download the e-PAN a limited number of times (usually 3 times) within a specific period.

What should I do if my mobile number is not linked to my Aadhaar?

To download your e-PAN from the Income Tax portal, a mobile number linked to Aadhaar is mandatory for OTP verification. You must first visit an Aadhaar enrolment centre to update your mobile number.

I applied for my PAN through a private agent. From which website should I download my e-PAN?

Check your PAN application receipt. It will mention whether your application was processed through NSDL (now Protean) or UTIITSL. You should visit the respective portal to download your e-PAN.

 I have lost my acknowledgment number for a new PAN application. How can I download the e-PAN?

If you have lost the acknowledgment number but have been allotted the PAN, you can use the 'Download e-PAN' option using your PAN number, Aadhaar, and date of birth on the Protean (NSDL) or UTIITSL portal.

The details on my e-PAN card are incorrect. What should I do?

If you find any discrepancies, you must apply for a "Correction/Change in PAN Data" through the NSDL or UTIITSL portal to get the details rectified. You cannot edit the downloaded PDF.

Can I get a physical copy of my PAN card from the e-PAN PDF?

You can print the e-PAN PDF on a regular or PVC card for convenience, but it will not be the same as the officially issued laminated card. To get an official physical card, you must apply for a "Reprint of PAN Card" on the NSDL or UTIITSL website.