The Income Tax Department has launched a one-time service for those who need PAN (Permanent Account Number) card on urgent basis, especially to file income tax returns, for which the last date is July 31. The Income Tax Department, in a statement said the 'instant' PAN or e-PAN can only be obtained by those having Aadhaar card and need the unique identity of PAN for the first time. Applicants will not be charged for the service, which, as per the department, is available on first-come-first-serve basis for a limited period of time.
"This facility is free of cost and instant allotment of e-PAN is available only for a limited period on first-come-first-serve basis for valid Aadhaar holders," the department said in a recent advisory. Since the last date to file the income tax returns is approaching, the department is flooded with applications regarding PAN. The I-T department said the 'instant' PAN Service has been launched to facilitate those seeking PAN cards to file their income tax returns, especially first-timers.
The facility is only available for the resident Indians. The department said Hindu Undivided Families, companies, trusts and companies, etc are not eligible.
How can you apply for instant PAN?
Things to keep in mind before applying