7 Easy Ways to Track Your PAN Card Status

There are multiple ways to track your PAN card status, including via the Protean and UTIITSL portals, cutting down your wait time. PAN cards typically take 15 - 20 days to process, but you may experience delays due to insufficient information, incorrect details, or other issues. This blog will guide you through 7 ways to track and expedite your PAN card status and delivery.

How to Track and Expedite Your PAN Card Application: 7 Ways

The Protean and UTIITSL portals are the only two recognised sites for PAN card applications and processes in India. Alongside, you have a few options to track your PAN disbursal or raise grievances through authorised channels like India Post and the Income Tax Portal. Here’s a look at your choices:

1. Tracking on Protean (NSDL) Portal with Acknowledgement Number

The Protean portal is most used for PAN-related processes, and you can track your card with just a few clicks. You need the 15-digit acknowledgement number, which is received in your confirmation email or receipt after submitting your form.

• First, visit the official Protean website.
• From the homepage, click on ‘PAN’ under the ‘Tax Modernisation’ dropdown.
• Navigate to the ‘Know your Application Status’ button and click.
• Under ‘Application Type’, select ‘PAN - New/Change Request’.
• Enter your 15-digit acknowledgement number accurately.
• Fill in the captcha code shown on the screen and click ‘Submit’. The portal will then display the current status of your application.

Also Read: How to Check If You Already Have a PAN (Know Your PAN by Name/DOB)

2. Tracking Without an Acknowledgement Number via UTIITSL Portal

If you’ve misplaced or forgotten your acknowledgement/coupon number and applied through the UTIITSL portal, you can easily check your PAN status. Note that to complete this process, you should have already received your allotted PAN via email and not yet received your physical PAN copy.

• On the official UTIITSL website, click on ‘Track your PAN card’ from the PAN Card Services dropdown.
• You have the option to either enter your Application Coupon Number or your 10-digit PAN in the designated field/s.
• Fill in the Date of Birth or the Date of Incorporation/Agreement, whichever is applicable.
• Complete the captcha verification and click the ‘Search’ button. The screen will show you the stage of your application, from processing to dispatch.

Also Read: Step-by-Step Guide on How to Check Active Loans on PAN Card

3. Tracking with PAN via Income Tax Portal

The official Income Tax Portal of India gives you the facility to track your PAN status without needing to log in. Here are the steps:

• On the Income Tax website homepage, click on ‘Verify PAN Status’ in the left panel menu.
• Fill in your PAN, full name as per PAN, date of birth, and mobile number for OTP verification.
• Submit the OPT as received and click ‘Next’.
• Your PAN status will be displayed.

4. Checking PAN Status Via SMS Service

If you want a quick update about your PAN card without worrying about internet connectivity, you can use the SMS service offered by Protean (NSDL). This lets you check the status of your PAN card directly on your mobile.

All you have to do is send an SMS in this format, ‘NSDLPAN 15-digit Acknowledgement Number’, to 57575. You’ll receive a text message in response with the current status of your PAN application.

5. Contacting Representatives to Expedite the Process

Email ID services offered by both portals enable you to list out any questions or grievances you may have and directly mail them to the respective site from which you applied. Here are the email IDs to know:

Protean: tininfo@proteantech.in

UTIITSL: utiitsl.gsd@utiitsl.com

A representative can also help identify any issues causing a delay, such as specifics on missing or incorrect documents, beyond what you find online. Before calling, ensure you have your acknowledgement number and personal details on hand to facilitate a quicker resolution.

Protean (NSDL) Helpline: 020-272-18080

UTIITSL Helpline: 033-408-02999

6. Monitoring the Dispatch via India Post

Once your online status changes to ‘Dispatched’, it means your physical PAN card has been printed and is in transit. The processing agency will send you an SMS containing a consignment or tracking number. You can use this number on the India Post website to follow your card’s journey from the dispatch centre right to your doorstep. This helps you know exactly when to expect the delivery.

Also Read: PAN Address Change Online: Step-by-Step With Supporting Documents

7. Filing a Grievance for Significant Delays

If your request has been stuck in the same stage of processing over the last few months, you can seek more formal solutions by filing a grievance with the Income Tax Department.

1. Scroll to the bottom of the homepage, navigate to the footer, and click on ‘Grievances’
2. Choose ‘I do not have a PAN/TAN’ (Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number) and click ‘Continue’
3. Fill in your personal details and click ‘Continue’
4. Submit the OTPs as received
5. Fill in the required information by selecting the relevant department, category, and sub-category, and provide a description of your issue

Ensure you mention the date on which you originally applied for your card, any related information like your Coupon or Application number, and how your status appears when you check via the steps mentioned above.

To Conclude

While waiting for your PAN card can be frustrating, using the tracking and escalation methods outlined will help you stay updated and resolve any delays efficiently. From investments and PAN Card loans to tax benefits, you’ll be better positioned to achieve your financial goals with your PAN card.

FAQs

How many days does it take to get a PAN card after it is dispatched?

After being dispatched, a physical PAN card is typically delivered by India Post within 7 to 15 working days. The delivery time can vary depending on your location.

What should I do if my PAN card is not received after one month?

You should first track its status on the Protean or UTIITSL portal. If the status is ‘dispatched’, use the provided consignment number to track it with India Post. If it hasn't been dispatched, call the relevant helpline for more information.

Can I use my e-PAN instead of the physical card?

Yes, the e-PAN is a digitally signed and valid proof of PAN for all official purposes. You can use it for KYC verification, filing income tax returns, and opening bank accounts while you wait for the physical card.

Why would a PAN card application be delayed?

Common reasons for delays include submitting incorrect details in the application form, a signature mismatch, or providing unclear supporting documents. High application volumes at the processing centres can also contribute to backlogs.

Should I re-apply for a PAN card if I haven’t received the first one?

No, you should never re-apply for a PAN card if you already have one or have an application in process. An individual is permitted to hold only one PAN, and having multiple PANs can result in a penalty.

Is a PAN card mandatory for taking a Personal Loan?

Yes, a PAN card is a mandatory KYC document required by all regulated lenders in India, including banks and NBFCs. You will need to provide it when applying for a Personal Loan or any other credit facility.