Aadhaar–PAN Linking Guide (2026): Complete Step-by-Step Process, Fees, Status Check & FAQs

Aadhaar–PAN Linking Guide (2026): Complete Step-by-Step Process, Fees, Status Check & FAQs

Linking your Aadhaar number with your PAN card is an important requirement for taxpayers in India. The Government of India made Aadhaar–PAN linking mandatory to verify identity, reduce duplicate PAN cards, and ensure accuracy in financial transactions. If your PAN is not linked with Aadhaar, your PAN may become inactive and you may face issues in tax filing, banking, investments, and KYC verification.
In this detailed guide, you will learn the complete Aadhaar–PAN linking process, fees, status check method, error solutions, and important FAQs in a simple and easy-to-understand format.

What is Aadhaar–PAN Linking and Why Is It Important?

Aadhaar–PAN linking means connecting your Permanent Account Number (PAN) with your Aadhaar number in the Income Tax Department database.

Benefits of linking Aadhaar with PAN

• Prevents duplicate or fake PAN cards
• Required for filing Income Tax Returns
• Mandatory for banking, Demat, investments & KYC
• Reduces identity mismatch during verification
• Helps maintain financial record accuracy
• Avoids PAN becoming inactive or unusable

If Aadhaar is not linked with PAN, certain services may be restricted until the linking is completed.

How to Link Aadhaar with PAN Online – Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to link Aadhaar and PAN through the Income Tax e-Filing Portal:

1. Open the Income Tax e-Filing Portal
2. Click on “Link Aadhaar” on the homepage
3. Enter your PAN number and Aadhaar number
4. Verify the details displayed on the screen
5. If a fee is applicable, complete the payment
6. Click Proceed and verify using OTP
7. Submit the request and wait for confirmation

Once completed, a message will appear stating that your Aadhaar–PAN linking request is submitted or successful.
Tip: Ensure your name, date of birth, and gender match in both Aadhaar and PAN records to avoid rejection.

 

How to Check Aadhaar–PAN Link Status

You can easily check whether Aadhaar is linked with PAN:

1. Visit the e-Filing portal
2. Select “Link Aadhaar Status”
3. Enter your PAN and Aadhaar number
4. The system will display your current status:

• Linked
• Not Linked
• Pending for Approval

Aadhaar–PAN Linking Fee (If Applicable)

In some cases, a linking fee may be required before submitting the request. The amount and rules are subject to change from time to time.
For the latest and accurate fee details, always refer to the official Income Tax website.

Common Errors & Solutions During Aadhaar–PAN Linking

1. Name or Date of Birth Mismatch
Reason: Different personal details in Aadhaar and PAN
Fix: Update records in Aadhaar or PAN, then try again
2. Aadhaar Not Linked with Mobile Number
Reason: OTP cannot be received
Fix: Visit Aadhaar enrolment/update centre to link mobile number
3. Linking Request Rejected
Reason: Incorrect information entered
Fix: Re-check details and submit again after corrections
4. Payment Done but Not Showing Linked
Reason: Processing delay
Fix: Wait for 2–3 working days and then check status again

Who Needs to Link Aadhaar with PAN?

• Aadhaar–PAN linking is generally required for:
• Individuals filing income tax returns
• Salaried and self-employed taxpayers
• People using PAN for investments, mutual funds, or Demat
• Individuals completing bank or financial institution KYC

Important Things to Remember

• Use the same mobile number registered with Aadhaar for OTP
• Cross-verify PAN and Aadhaar before submitting
• Do not share OTP or personal information with others
• Always use the official Income Tax portal only

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Is it compulsory to link Aadhaar with PAN?
Yes, in most cases it is mandatory as per IT Department guidelines.
Q2. What happens if I do not link Aadhaar and PAN?
Your PAN may become inactive, affecting tax filing and financial services.
Q3. Can I link Aadhaar with PAN offline?
Yes, you may contact an authorised PAN/Aadhaar service centre.
Q4. How long does it take to update the linking status?
Processing time may take a few hours to a few days in some cases.
Q5. Can NRIs link Aadhaar with PAN?
Linking requirements may vary – refer to official guidelines before proceeding.

Final Summary

Linking Aadhaar with PAN is a simple but essential step for identity verification and financial compliance in India. Completing the process on time helps avoid inconvenience and ensures smooth access to tax-related and financial services. Always follow official instructions and double-check your details before submitting the request.
Important Disclaimer
This article is meant for educational and informational purposes only. Rules, fees, and procedures may change over time. For the latest updates, always refer to the official Income Tax Department and UIDAI websites or consult an authorised service centre.