Permanent Account Number (PAN)

Format of a PAN

A PAN is a ten-digit alphanumeric identifier with specific components representing the holder's name, status, and a unique sequence, culminating in a check digit.

Example- ABZCN6590K

A typical PAN follows the below format:

• ​​The initial three characters "ABZ" constitute an alphabetical series ranging from AAA to ZZZ.
• The fourth character "C" denotes the status of the PAN holder:The character can vary from holder to holder depending on the identity such as "P" for Individual, "F" for Firm, "C" for Company, "H" for HUF, "A" for AOP, "T" for TRUST, etc.
• The fifth character "N" signifies the first character of the PAN holder's last name or surname.
• The subsequent four characters "6590" form a sequential number progressing from 0001 to 9999.
• The last character "K" is an alphabetic check digit.

How to apply for PAN?

Through SPICe+ Application

For newly incorporated entities, the e-PAN is issued upon the submission of forms such as SPICe+ Part A and Part B. The Certificate of Incorporation, which includes the 10-digit PAN, is subsequently delivered via email, confirming the successful completion of the company registration process.

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Through NSDL

To apply for a PAN through National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL), follow these steps:

• Visit the Protean portal (formerly NSDL eGov) https://tin.tin.nsdl.com/pan/index.html for a new application.
• Choose the application type based on your citizenship:
  - For Indian Citizens: Form 49A
  - For Foreign Citizens: Form 49AA
• Select the category (individual, firm, company, etc.) for which the application is being made.
• Provide necessary details and attach required identity proofs, address proofs, copy of Certificate of Incorporation (COI), etc.
• Pay the applicable fees. The PAN card application fees vary depending on whether you choose physical or digital dispatch of your PAN card.
• Upon successful payment, an acknowledgment will be displayed. You can check your application status through this acknowledgment, which will also be sent to your email ID.
• Send the necessary documents along with the acknowledgment slip via courier/post to the NSDL office. PAN application processing begins only after receiving the documents.
• Once verified, the PAN will be issued within 15 days.