Tax Identity

We tell you all you need to know about your PAN, or Permanent Account Number, and why it is so important

Print Edition: July 2013

PAN, or permanent account number, is a unique 10-digit alphanumeric identity allotted to each taxpayer by the Income Tax Department under the supervision of the Central Board of Direct Taxes. It also serves as an identity proof. PAN is mandatory for financial transactions such as receiving taxable salary or professional fees, sale or purchase of assets above specified limits, buy mutual funds and more.

The primary objective of PAN is to use a universal identification key to track financial transactions that might have a taxable component to prevent tax evasion. The PAN number remains unaffected by change of address throughout India.

WHO MUST APPLY FOR PAN?

Anybody who earns a taxable income in India, including foreign nationals who pay taxes here
Anybody who runs a business (be it retail, services or consultancy) that had total sales, turnover or gross receipt exceeding Rs 5 lakh in the previous financial year

HOW TO APPLY?

Use 'Form 49A' or 'Form 49AA' as applicable to you. Find more details at incometaxindia.gov.in.
You can find the location of PAN card offices in any city from the websites of the Income Tax Department or National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL).
You will need copies of proof of Identity and address.
Payment can be made using cash, cheque or demand draft.
You can also apply online through websites of the I-T Department or NSDL.
If you are applying online, the processing fee can be paid via net banking, credit card or debit card.
Track the status of your application online.

WHY GET A PAN NUMBER?

For payment of direct taxes
To file income tax returns
To avoid deduction of tax at higher rate than due
To enter into specific transaction such as:

(a) Sale or purchase of immovable property valued at Rs 5 lakh or more
(b) Sale or purchase of a vehicle other than a two wheeler
(c) Payment to hotels or restaurants an amount exceeding Rs 25,000 at any one time
(d) Payment in cash an amount exceeding Rs 25,000 in connection with travel to any foreign country
(e) Payment of an amount of Rs 50,000 or more to the Reserve Bank of India for acquiring bonds
(f) Payment of an amount of Rs 50,000 or more to a company or an institution for acquiring bonds or debentures
(g) Payment of an amount of Rs 50,000 or more to a company for acquiring shares
(h) Any mutual fund purchase
(j) Deposit exceeding Rs 50,000 with any single banking institution in 24 hours.
(k) Payment exceeding Rs 5 lakh for purchase of bullion and jewellery