Updating of PAN Card Specifications in India

The permanent account number (PAN) card, issued by the income tax authorities, is now broadly used in financial transactions and one of the most convenient proofs for identity. Therefore, it is essential to keep the PAN card updated to reflect your current details.

The tax information network, operated by the National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL), provides this update service. This operation permits you to update details such as photograph, address and signature, but not the number itself. The PAN change request form is available online.

Online application
The form can be submitted online with details such as name, address and a recent photograph. An acknowledgement form with a 15-digit unique number will be generated.

Dispatch
The acknowledgement, along with supporting documents for any changes sought, should be sent to NSDL, 3rd floor, Sapphire Chambers, near Baner, Pune, 411045.

Mode of payment
One need to pay Rs.94 (Indians) or Rs.744 (NRIs), which can be sent online or by a cheque or DD, payable at Mumbai, along with the documents.

Delivery and tracking
The new PAN card will be delivered by post. The status of the application can be tracked online.

Points to note
Online form: The online form will ask for basic details printed on the PAN card. All the categories requiring a change (differing from the existing PAN card) have to be specifically checked.

Deadline: The documents supporting the online application should reach NSDL within 15 days of the online submission of application.

Others: The same form can be used to cancel a previously issued PAN card or for re-issuance of a lost PAN card.

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