In India, having a PAN card (Permanent Account Number) is crucial for various financial transactions. However, the process of obtaining a physical PAN card can be cumbersome and time-consuming. To overcome this issue, the government of India introduced an electronic PAN card or E-PAN. The E-PAN is a digitally signed PAN card that can be downloaded from the NSDL or UTI portals. In this article, we will discuss the steps involved in E-PAN download for digital identity.
Step 1: Determine Whether You Are Eligible For E-PAN
Before proceeding with the E-PAN download process, it is essential to check whether you are eligible for an E-PAN. The eligibility criterion for E-PAN is the same as for a physical PAN card, i.e., any individual, firm, company, HUF, trust, or association can apply for a PAN card. The government also allows individuals who have never been allotted a PAN card to apply for the E-PAN.
Step 2: Apply for E-PAN
There are two ways to apply for an E-PAN card: through the NSDL portal or the UTI portal. Both portals have a simple and user-friendly interface, and the application process for E-PAN is online.
NSDL Portal: To apply for E-PAN through the NSDL portal, follow the steps given below:
1. Visit the NSDL PAN section website and select the “Apply for new PAN” option.
2. Select the application type as “New PAN – Indian citizens (Form 49A)” from the drop-down menu.
3. Fill in the application form and submit it. The applicant will then be given a 15-digit Acknowledgment Number, which can be used to track the status of the application.
UTI Portal: Alternatively, an individual can apply for an E-PAN through the UTI portal. The steps involved are:
1. Visit the UTIITSL PAN card website and select the “Apply for PAN Card – New Correction” option.
2. Fill in the application form and submit it. The applicant will be given an Acknowledgment Number that can be used to track the status of the application.
Step 3: Processing of E-PAN application
Once the application is submitted, it goes through a verification process. The verification process involves verifying the applicant’s details with the Income Tax Department database and validating the information provided on the application.
If there are any discrepancies or errors in the application, the applicant will be informed via email or SMS to rectify the mistakes. The processing time for an E-PAN application is generally five to seven days. Once the verification process is complete, the E-PAN is generated, and the applicant is notified via email.
Step 4: Downloading the E-PAN
After the E-PAN is generated, the applicant can download the E-PAN from the NSDL or UTI portal. The steps involved in downloading the E-PAN are:
1. Visit the NSDL or UTI portal and select the “Download E-PAN” option.
2. Enter the 15-digit Acknowledgment Number received during the application process.
3. Enter personal details such as name, date of birth, and mobile number.
4. Submit the details, and the E-PAN will be downloaded in PDF format.
Step 5: Validating the E-PAN
Once the E-PAN is downloaded, it is essential to validate the E-PAN. The validation process involves verifying the authenticity of the E-PAN to avoid any fraudulent activities. The government has provided a facility to validate the E-PAN through the NSDL portal. The steps involved in validating the E-PAN are:
1. Visit the NSDL PAN validation section website.
2. Enter the E-PAN number.
3. Enter the first name, middle name, and last name of the applicant.
4. Enter the date of birth.
5. Enter the captcha code and submit the details.
If the details entered are correct, the E-PAN authenticity will be verified, and the applicant will receive a confirmation message.
Advantages of E-PAN
1. Convenience: E-PAN eliminates the need for physical documents and long waiting times. The E-PAN can be downloaded within a few days after successful verification.
2. Cost-effective: The cost of an E-PAN is much lower than that of a physical PAN card. The E-PAN is generated electronically and can be easily downloaded, eliminating the need for printing, lamination, and postage costs.
3. Authenticity: The E-PAN is valid and authentic, as it is digitally signed by the government of India. The authenticity of the E-PAN can be verified online, reducing the possibility of fraudulent activities.
4. Availability: E-PAN is available 24×7 and can be downloaded from anywhere. This feature makes it easier for individuals who are away from their registered address to obtain an E-PAN.
UTI PAN Card Status
After applying for an E-PAN through the UTI portal, the applicant can track the status of the application. The UTI portal provides a facility to track the UTI PAN card status. The steps involved in checking the UTI PAN status are:
1. Visit the UTIITSL PAN card website.
2. Select the “Track PAN Card Status” option.
3. Enter the 15-digit Acknowledgment Number received during the E-PAN application process.
4. Submit the details and track the status of the UTI PAN card application.
Conclusion
In conclusion, E-PAN is a digital alternative to the physical PAN card in India. The process of obtaining an E-PAN is simple and convenient, and the E-PAN is digitally signed and authentic. The E-PAN can be downloaded from the NSDL or UTI portal, and the authenticity of the E-PAN can be verified online. The UTI portal also provides a facility to track the UTI PAN card status. The introduction of E-PAN has made it easier for individuals to obtain a PAN card without the hassle of physical documentation, waiting times, and long processing times, making it a significant step towards a digital India.
