How Can I Track My PAN Card Application Status?

Obtaining a Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is crucial for various financial transactions in India. Once you’ve submitted your PAN card application, it’s natural to be curious about its status. Here’s a guide on how to effectively track your PAN card application progress:

Using the Acknowledgement Number

The most convenient way to track your application status is through the acknowledgement number you receive upon submitting your application. This unique 15-digit number acts as your key to accessing application updates. There are two primary service providers authorized to process PAN applications in India: NSDL (TIN Facilitation Centre) and UTIITSL.

• Tracking via NSDL website:

1. Visit the official NSDL website: Track PAN Status – Online PAN application NSDL or UTIITSL.
2. Click on “Track Your PAN/ TAN Application Status.”
3. Choose “PAN” as the application type.
4. Enter your 15-digit acknowledgement number.
5. Verify the details and click “Track Status.”

The website will display the current status of your PAN card application.

• Tracking via SMS (for NSDL applications only):

If you applied for your PAN card through NSDL (now Protean), you can also track the status via SMS. Here’s how:

1. Open your messaging app and compose a new message.
2. In the message body, type “NSDLPAN” followed by your 15-digit acknowledgement number (without any spaces).
3. Send the SMS to 57575.

You’ll receive a reply SMS with an update on your PAN card application status within a short period.

Important Note:

• You can only track the application status after three days of submitting your application form.

Alternative Methods

While the acknowledgement number offers the most efficient tracking method, alternative options exist:

• Contacting the PAN Call Centre:

The Income Tax Department operates a call center specifically for PAN-related inquiries. You can reach them at 020-27218080 to inquire about your application status. Be prepared to provide your acknowledgement number or any other relevant details when calling.

• Checking Application Status through UTIITSL website (if applicable):

If you applied for your PAN card through UTIITSL, you can track the status on their website. However, the process may differ slightly from NSDL’s. Visit the UTIITSL website and search for instructions specific to their platform.

Understanding the Status Update

The status update displayed on the website or received through SMS will typically be a generic message. Here are some common status updates and their potential interpretations:

• “Pending” or “In Process”: This indicates your application is undergoing verification and processing.
• “Dispatch of PAN Card”: Your PAN card has been printed and is ready for dispatch.
• “PAN Card Not Dispatched”: There might be an issue with your application requiring further verification.

For a more detailed explanation of a specific status update, it’s recommended to contact the PAN Call Centre.

Expected Processing Time

The processing time for a PAN card application can vary depending on various factors like workload and verification requirements. It typically takes anywhere between 15 to 45 days to receive your PAN card after submitting the application.

By following these steps and understanding the different tracking methods, you can effectively monitor the progress of your PAN card application and receive updates on its status.