In day-to-day life, people often carry their PAN card in their wallet or purse. Sometimes it unknowingly falls on the road, gets misplaced, or in unfortunate cases, gets stolen. Losing a PAN card can create anxiety because the PAN (Permanent Account Number) is a mandatory document for banking, filing income tax returns, investments, and many financial transactions.
It is important to understand that PAN is issued only once to an individual and cannot be changed, even if the physical card is lost. If your PAN card is missing, you only need to reprint or reissue the PAN card, not apply for a new PAN.
Let’s understand step by step what you should do if your PAN card is lost.
Step 1: Lodge a Police Complaint
If your PAN card is lost or stolen, the first step should be to file a complaint at the nearest police station.
This is important because:
- It helps prevent misuse of your PAN for fraudulent or illegal activities
- It serves as legal proof that the PAN card was lost
- It may be required by banks or other authorities in case of disputes
Keep a copy of the complaint or acknowledgment safely.
Step 2: Find Your PAN Number (If You Don’t Remember It)
If you remember your PAN number, you can proceed directly to the online application.
If you do not remember your PAN number, you can:
- Visit your nearest Income Tax Office with valid identity proof and request assistance, or
- Check old documents such as bank statements, income tax returns, Form 16, or emails where PAN may be mentioned
Once you have your PAN number, you can apply online.
Step 3: Understand the Correct Application Type
This is where many people get confused. There are two different applications, and they should not be mixed.
1. Reprint of PAN Card
Choose this only if:
- Your PAN card is lost, damaged, or stolen
- No change is required in name, date of birth, photograph, signature, or other details
A separate Reprint PAN option is available online.
2. PAN Change / Correction
Choose this only if:
- You need to correct or update details such as name, date of birth, address, photo, or signature
This requires filing a PAN Change/Correction Request Form, which is different from the reprint facility.
Step 4: Apply Online Through Official Websites
You can apply only through government-authorised portals:
- Protean (formerly NSDL eGov)
- https://tinpan.proteantech.in/services/pan/pan-index
- UTIITSL PAN Portal
- https://www.pan.utiitsl.com/PAN/
Select the correct option carefully:
- Reprint of PAN Card” for reissue without changes
- Change or Correction in PAN Data” for updating details
Also Read : How to Create PAN Card Online | VisonX Digital
Note: If you are unable to fill out the PAN application form on your own, you can simply visit your nearest CSC (Common Service Center), where trained staff will help you complete the PAN card application or reprint process easily.
Step 5: Fill the Application Form Carefully
Enter the required details such as:
- PAN number
- Aadhaar number (for individuals)
- Date of birth or incorporation
- Address for communication
- Email ID and mobile number
For PAN Change/Correction, you must:
- Fill all mandatory fields
- Tick the checkbox next to the field where correction is required
For PAN Reprint, you must:
- Fill all fields
- Do not select any correction checkbox
If you face any difficulty in understanding the process or are unable to complete it, please contact us by clicking the link below: https://visonx.co.in/contact
Step 6: PAN Reprint Fees (Correct Charges)
Reprint of PAN Card (Separate Reprint Facility)
Dispatch LocationFee (Inclusive of Taxes)Within India₹50Outside India₹959
This is applicable only for PAN Reprint requests submitted through the dedicated reprint link.
Step 7: Charges for PAN Change / Correction
If Physical PAN Card is Required
Paperless (e-KYC / e-Sign / DSC) Mode
LocationFee (Inclusive of Taxes)India₹101Outside India₹1,011
Physical Mode (Documents Sent by Post)
LocationFee (Inclusive of Taxes)India₹107Outside India₹1,017
If Physical PAN Card is NOT Required (Only e-PAN)
ModeFee (Inclusive of Taxes)Paperless mode₹66Physical mode₹72
Step 8: Payment and Acknowledgment
Payment can be made via:
- Credit Card
- Debit Card
- Net Banking
After successful payment:
- An acknowledgment receipt is generated
- A copy of the receipt is sent to your registered email ID
- The receipt contains a tracking number to track application status
Step 9: Document Submission (If Required)
For paperless applications (e-KYC / e-Sign / DSC):
- No physical documents are required
For physical mode applications:
- Print and sign the acknowledgment
- Affix photographs (for individuals)
- Attach required proofs (identity, address, date of birth, PAN copy if available)
- Send to Protean PAN Services Unit within 15 days
Step 10: Track Your PAN Application
You can track your application using the acknowledgment number on the official portal. Once processed:
- The physical PAN card will be dispatched to your address (if opted)
- The e-PAN will be sent to your registered email ID
Conclusion
Losing your PAN card does not mean losing your PAN identity. By choosing the correct application type, paying the accurate fees, and following the official process, you can easily get your PAN card reissued or corrected. Always avoid applying for a new PAN, as holding more than one PAN is illegal under the Income Tax Act.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do first if I lose my PAN card?
You should immediately file a complaint at your nearest police station. This helps prevent misuse of your PAN for illegal activities and acts as proof in case of identity theft.
Will my PAN number change if I apply for a reprint?
No. Your PAN number remains the same for a lifetime. A reprint only provides a new physical PAN card with the existing PAN number.
Which application should I choose if my PAN card is lost?
If your details are correct and you only need a duplicate card, choose Reprint of PAN Card.
If you need to update or correct any details such as name, date of birth, or address, choose PAN Change/Correction.
Is there a separate form for PAN reprint and PAN correction?
Yes.
- PAN Reprint uses a separate online reprint facility.
- PAN Change/Correction requires filling the PAN Change/Correction application form.
What are the charges for PAN card reprint?
For reprint of PAN card:
- ₹50 (including GST) for delivery within India
- ₹959 (including GST) for delivery outside India
Can I apply for PAN reprint or correction online?
Yes. You can apply online through the official portals of Protean (NSDL) or UTIITSL.
Is Aadhaar mandatory for PAN reprint or correction?
Aadhaar is mandatory for individuals if it is already linked with PAN. Providing Aadhaar helps in faster processing through paperless e-KYC and e-Sign options.
Will I receive an e-PAN card?
Yes. In most cases, an e-PAN card is sent to your registered email ID. You can also choose to receive only an e-PAN without opting for a physical card.
How long does it take to receive the PAN card after applying?
Usually, the PAN card is dispatched within 10–15 working days after successful submission and verification of documents.
What if I am unable to apply online by myself?
If you are unable to complete the application on your own, you can visit your nearest CSC (Common Service Center) or contact us for assistance.
Can someone misuse my PAN if it is lost?
Yes, misuse is possible if your PAN falls into the wrong hands. That is why filing a police complaint and applying for reprint as soon as possible is strongly advised.
Can I track my PAN application status?
Yes. You can track your application using the acknowledgment number provided after submission on the official PAN portal.
