The Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a critical identity and tax document in India. It is essential for activities like filing income tax returns, opening bank accounts, investments, and financial transactions. Losing or misplacing a PAN card can create inconvenience, but the Income Tax Department has made it easy to retrieve or reissue PAN cards quickly.
This article provides a step-by-step guide to retrieving a lost or misplaced PAN card, covering online and offline methods, required documents, important points, and tips to avoid future loss.
Overview Table: Retrieving Lost PAN Card
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Methods | Online reprint via NSDL/UTIITSL, offline application at PAN facilitation center |
| Required Documents | PAN number (if known), Aadhaar, identity and address proof |
| Fees | ₹110–₹120 (online & offline) |
| Processing Time | 7–15 working days |
| Delivery Mode | Physical PAN by post; e-PAN download available instantly |
| Verification | OTP-based Aadhaar verification for online reprint |
| Legal Status | Reissued PAN card is valid and carries same PAN number |
Methods to Retrieve Lost or Misplaced PAN Card
Method 1: Retrieve PAN Online Using NSDL or UTIITSL
If you know your PAN number, you can request a reprint of your PAN card online.
Steps:
- Visit the NSDL e-PAN portal: https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com/paam/ReprintPAN.html or UTIITSL PAN portal.
- Select “Reprint of PAN Card”.
- Enter your PAN number and Aadhaar details.
- Verify mobile number/email via OTP.
- Pay the nominal fee of ₹110–₹120 using online payment methods.
- Download e-PAN instantly and wait for the physical card by post.
Tip: If you don’t remember your PAN number, use the PAN search facility using Aadhaar, name, and date of birth.
Method 2: Retrieve PAN Offline via PAN Reprint Form
For those who prefer offline methods, you can submit Form 49A for reprinting PAN.
Steps:
- Download Form 49A or collect it from a PAN facilitation center.
- Fill in personal details and mark it as ‘Request for Reprint of PAN’.
- Attach identity proof, address proof, and a copy of Aadhaar.
- Submit the form at NSDL or UTIITSL PAN office.
- Pay the applicable fee (₹110–₹120).
- Your PAN card will be processed within 10–15 working days and sent to your registered address.
Method 3: Retrieve PAN Number Only (If Card Lost)
If you lost your PAN card but need the PAN number immediately, you can retrieve it without waiting for a reprint:
- Visit NSDL PAN portal: https://www.tin-nsdl.com/
- Click “Know Your PAN”.
- Enter personal details such as name, date of birth, and Aadhaar.
- Your PAN number will be displayed.
- Use this PAN number to download e-PAN or for transactions while awaiting the physical card.
Required Documents for PAN Reissue
| Applicant Type | Documents Needed |
|---|---|
| Individual | PAN number (if known), Aadhaar, Identity proof (Passport, Voter ID, Driving License) |
| NRI | Passport, Overseas address proof, Aadhaar (if linked) |
| Minor | Guardian’s PAN details, Birth certificate, Identity proof of parent/guardian |
| Company / Firm | PAN of authorized signatory, Certificate of Incorporation, Identity proof |
Tip: Ensure all documents match the original PAN application to avoid processing delays.
Important Points to Remember
- Lost PAN card can be reported to authorities for security purposes, but the reissue process remains straightforward.
- e-PAN is legally valid, so you can use the digitally signed version immediately.
- If your PAN number is forgotten, it can be retrieved online using Aadhaar and other personal details.
- Keep a digital copy of your PAN card to avoid future inconvenience.
- Always update address or contact details with NSDL or UTIITSL to ensure smooth delivery.
Advantages of Retrieving PAN Online
- Quick and Convenient: e-PAN is available instantly after verification.
- Secure: OTP-based Aadhaar verification prevents misuse.
- Cost-Effective: Low nominal fee (₹110–₹120).
- Legally Recognized: e-PAN or reissued PAN carries the same PAN number.
3 Best One-Line FAQs
Can I retrieve my PAN card if I lost it?
Yes, you can retrieve it online via NSDL/UTIITSL or request a physical reprint using Form 49A.
Is there a fee to get a PAN card reissued?
Yes, a nominal fee of ₹110–₹120 is charged for PAN reprint.
Can I use the e-PAN while waiting for the physical card?
Yes, the digitally signed e-PAN is legally valid and can be used immediately.