PAN Aadhaar Linking Guide 2026: Check Status, Deadline & Free Process

Last Updated on January 30, 2026 by My Aadhaar Card

PAN Aadhaar Linking:- Linking your PAN (Permanent Account Number) with your Aadhaar card has become mandatory for Indian taxpayers. The Income Tax Department of India has made PAN Aadhaar linking compulsory to prevent duplicate PAN cards, ensure transparency in financial transactions, and simplify tax compliance. If your PAN is not linked with Aadhaar, it may become inoperative, leading to difficulties in filing income tax returns, opening bank accounts, or conducting high-value transactions.

In this detailed guide, you will learn how to link PAN with Aadhaar card, online and offline methods, fees involved, and how to check aadhar pan card link status easily.

Check Aadhaar Card Status, Track Enrolment or Update Online

Why Is PAN Aadhaar Linking Important?

Linking PAN with Aadhaar helps the government verify an individual’s identity and eliminate fraudulent PAN cards. Once linked, it becomes easier to track financial transactions, reduce tax evasion, and streamline services related to income tax.

If PAN is not linked with Aadhaar:

• PAN may become inactive
• Income Tax Return (ITR) filing may be blocked
• TDS may be deducted at a higher rate
• Refunds can get delayed

Therefore, it is essential to complete the linking process as soon as possible.

Documents Required for PAN Aadhar Linking

You do not need any physical documents if your details are already updated. However, ensure the following information matches in both documents:

• Name
• Date of Birth
• Gender

If there is a mismatch, correction in PAN or Aadhaar is required before linking.

How to Link PAN with Aadhaar Card Online (Through Income Tax Portal)

Follow these simple steps to link PAN with Aadhaar online:

1. Visit the official Income eportal.incometax.gov.in
2. Click on “Link Aadhaar” under the Quick Links section
3. Enter your PAN number
4. Enter your Aadhaar number
5. Verify details such as name and date of birth,
6. If applicable, enter OTP received on registered mobile number
7. Submit the request

Once submitted successfully, you will see a confirmation message. You can later check your aadhar pan card link status on the same portal.

Linking PAN with Aadhaar After Deadline (With Fee)

If you missed the deadline, you can still link PAN with Aadhaar by paying a prescribed fee.

Steps to Pay Linking Fee:

1. Go to Income Tax e-Filing portal
2. Click on e-Pay Tax
3. Select Income Tax and enter PAN
4. Choose Fee for delayed Aadhaar–PAN linking,
5. Complete payment via net banking, UPI, or debit card

After payment, wait for confirmation and then proceed to link PAN with Aadhaar. Payment confirmation may take 24–72 hours.

How to Link PAN with Aadhaar Offline?

Linking Aadhaar with PAN online is quick and convenient, but some individuals may choose offline methods instead. The Income Tax Department also provides multiple offline options for linking PAN and Aadhaar. These alternatives are especially helpful for people with limited internet access. Below are the main offline methods available:

1. Visit the Nearest PAN Service Center

One of the easiest offline ways to link Aadhaar and PAN is by visiting a nearby PAN service center. These centers operate in many cities and towns and offer support for PAN-related services. You need to carry your original Aadhaar card and PAN card along with self-attested photocopies. The staff at the service center will assist you in completing the required form and submitting the documents. After successful verification, your Aadhaar and PAN will be linked offline.

2. Link PAN and Aadhaar via SMS

Another simple offline method is using the SMS facility. To link your PAN with Aadhaar through SMS, type a message in the format UIDPAN [12-digit Aadhaar number] [10-character PAN] and send it to the number specified by the Income Tax Department. Once the details are verified, you will receive a confirmation message indicating successful linkage.

3. Submit a Paper Application

Individuals who do not have access to the internet or mobile services can link their PAN and Aadhaar by submitting a physical application form. The PAN–Aadhaar linking form can be obtained from a PAN service center or downloaded from the official, website. Fill in all required details, paste photographs if needed, and attach self-attested copies of both Aadhaar and PAN cards. Submit the completed form to the nearest PAN service center or authorized office for further processing.

How to Check Aadhar PAN Card Link Status?

Checking aadhar pan card link status is simple and can be done online in minutes.

Steps to Check Status:

1. Visit the Income Tax e-Filing portal
2. Click on “Link Aadhaar Status”
3. Enter your PAN number
4. Enter your Aadhaar number
5. Click on View Status

The system will display whether your PAN is linked, not linked, or pending verification. Regularly checking your aadhar pan card link status ensures there are no last-minute issues while filing taxes.

Common Problems While Linking PAN with Aadhaar

Many users face errors during linking due to mismatched details. Common issues include:

• Name mismatch
• Incorrect date of birth
• Mobile number not linked with Aadhaar
• Technical errors on the portal

Solution:

• Update details on UIDAI or NSDL portal
• Ensure spelling and format are identical
• Retry linking after correction

Once corrected, recheck your aadhar pan card link status to confirm successful linking.

Who Is Exempted from PAN Aadhaar Linking?

Certain individuals are exempted from linking PAN with Aadhaar:

• Non-resident Indians (NRIs)
• Individuals above 80 years of age
• Residents of Assam, Meghalaya, and Jammu & Kashmir
• Foreign citizens

If you fall under any exempted category, your PAN will remain valid without linking.

FAQs For Aadhaar Pan Linking

1. How to link PAN with Aadhaar?

Visit Income Tax e-Filing portal, choose Link Aadhaar, enter PAN and Aadhaar numbers, verify details, submit request successfully online securely.

2. What is the last date for Aadhaar PAN link 2025?

Taxpayers must link Aadhaar with PAN by 31 December 2025, to maintain PAN validity.

3. Is PAN Aadhaar link free now?

No, PAN Aadhaar linking is not free now; a late fee is charged for delayed linking by Income Tax Department.