If your PAN card is lost, you do not need to apply for a new PAN number. You can either download an e-PAN through authorised portals such as Protean (NSDL) or UTIITSL or the Income Tax e-Filing portal (where applicable), or request a duplicate PAN card reprint using your existing PAN details.
This guide explains how to get an e-PAN, apply for a replacement PAN card online, understand the charges, know if filing an FIR is necessary, and what to do if you do not remember your PAN number.
Lost PAN Card: What Should You Do?
According to the Income Tax Department, PAN holders should not apply for a new PAN if the existing PAN is lost, damaged, or misplaced. Instead, they should request a duplicate or reprinted PAN card. If your PAN card is lost, you can either download an e-PAN online or apply for a duplicate PAN card. Possessing multiple PANs may attract penalties under the Income Tax Act.

How Can You Download an e-PAN if Your PAN Card is Lost?
If you have lost your PAN card, you can get an e-PAN from authorised providers like Protean (NSDL) or UTIITSL. E-PAN is a digital version of your PAN card with the same details as the physical one, and it is accepted for most uses.
You may also be able to access your PAN through the Income Tax Department's e-Filing portal if you obtained it via the Instant e-PAN facility.
Downloading an e-PAN through the Protean (NSDL) Portal
You can request and download your e-PAN online from the Protean portal by following these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Protean e-PAN Portal
Go to the official Protean PAN services website and find the PAN Services Links section.
Step 2: Enter Your PAN Details
Enter:
-
PAN number
-
Aadhaar number (for individuals)
-
Date of birth/incorporation
-
GSTIN (if applicable)
Step 3: Complete Identity Verification
Verify your identity using the authentication method provided on the portal.
Step 4: Pay Applicable Charges
Charges may vary depending on eligibility, type of request, and portal policies. Always verify the latest fees on the official website before proceeding.
Step 5: Download Your e-PAN
After successful verification and processing, you can download your e-PAN.
Downloading e-PAN Through UTIITSL Portal
UTIITSL allows PAN holders to download an e-PAN online if their PAN card is lost.
Step 1: Visit the UTIITSL e-PAN Portal
Visit the official UTIITSL website and go to the Download e-PAN section.
Step 2: Enter Required Information
-
PAN number
-
Date of birth
-
GSTIN (if applicable)
-
Captcha code
Step 3: Complete Authentication
Your request is generally authenticated through OTP verification sent to the email address available in PAN records.
Step 4: Pay Applicable Fees
Fees, if applicable, will be displayed on the portal.
Step 5: Receive e-PAN
The e-PAN PDF is sent to the email address available in the PAN database after successful verification.
Also Read: How to Download PAN Card Online from NSDL & UTIITSL
How to Download e-PAN from the Income Tax e-Filing Portal
Individuals who obtained PAN through the Instant e-PAN facility can download their e-PAN directly from the Income Tax e-Filing portal.
Step 1: Visit the Income Tax e-Filing website.
Step 2: Go to the Instant e-PAN service.
Step 3: Select the option to check status or download e-PAN.
Step 4: Enter your Aadhaar number and complete OTP verification.
Step 5: Download the available e-PAN PDF.
How to Apply for a Physical Duplicate PAN Card (PAN Card Reprint)
A duplicate PAN card is generally issued through the PAN card reprint facility. The reprinted card contains the same PAN number and details as the original card.
If you need a physical PAN card, request a reprint instead of applying for a new PAN number.
PAN Card Reprint Through the Protean (NSDL) Portal
Protean enables PAN holders to request a replacement PAN card online in a few simple steps:
- Open PAN Reprint Service: Visit the official Protean portal and click the
‘Re-print PAN card’ option under PAN services. - Enter PAN Details: Provide your PAN number, Aadhaar details, date of birth, and other required information.
- Complete Verification: Verify your identity through OTP Verification & biometric authentication, if applicable.
- Pay Reprint Charges: Pay the applicable charges displayed on the portal at the time of application.
- Save Acknowledgement Receipt: A 15-digit acknowledgement number is generated after successful payment.
- Receive Your Duplicate PAN Card: The PAN card will be dispatched to the registered communication address.
PAN Card Reprint Through the UTIITSL Portal
- UTIITSL also offers online PAN reprint services for lost, misplaced, or damaged PAN cards.
- Visit the UTIITSL PAN Portal: Open the official UTIITSL PAN services website. Select the ‘Reprint PAN Card’ option.
- Enter PAN Information: Enter your PAN number, Aadhaar number, date of birth, and captcha details.
- Complete Payment: As per prevailing charges displayed on the portal.
- Receive Your PAN Card: The reprinted PAN card will be dispatched to your registered address.
Also Read: Applying for a PAN Card Loan Online: Steps and Benefits
PAN Card Reprint Charges
The following charges are currently displayed on official PAN reprint portals:
|
Delivery Address |
Charges* |
|
Within India |
₹50 |
|
Outside India |
₹959 |
Charges are subject to revision. Please check the official Protean or UTIITSL portal for the latest fee before submitting your application.
e-PAN vs Duplicate PAN Card: Which Option Should You Choose?
|
Requirement |
Recommended Option |
|
Need PAN immediately |
e-PAN |
|
Need a physical PAN card |
PAN Card Reprint |
|
Concerned about misuse |
File a police complaint and monitor financial records |
|
Lost card but know PAN number |
Download e-PAN or apply for reprint |
|
Lost card and forgot PAN number |
Retrieve PAN details first |
What if You Do Not Remember Your PAN Number?
If you have lost your PAN card and do not remember your PAN number, you should first retrieve your PAN details through official PAN services before requesting an e-PAN or duplicate card.
You can use the Income Tax Department's "Know Your PAN" service or other authorised PAN-related services to retrieve your PAN details, subject to eligibility and verification requirements.
Once your PAN number is available, you can proceed with downloading an e-PAN or requesting a PAN reprint.
Can Someone Misuse a Lost PAN Card?
A lost PAN card may potentially be misused for unauthorised financial activities if it falls into the wrong hands. While PAN alone may not be sufficient for most transactions, you should monitor:
- Income tax records
- Bank accounts
- Loan enquiries
- Credit reports
- Financial statements linked to PAN
If you notice suspicious activity, report it immediately to the relevant institution and retain any complaint records.
Is Filing a FIR Mandatory for a Lost PAN Card?
You do not have to file a First Information Report if you lose your PAN card. However, if you are worried about misuse, filing a police complaint creates an official record of the loss.
If you file a report, keep a copy of the complaint or acknowledgement for your records. This can help if any issues with your lost PAN card arise later. Also, watch your financial activities, like bank transactions, tax records, and any accounts linked to your PAN. Regular monitoring helps you spot and handle any suspicious activity early.
Although filing an FIR is optional, it can provide additional protection if someone attempts to misuse your PAN details.
Also Read: Step-by-Step Guide on How to Check Active Loans on PAN Card
To Conclude
If you lose your PAN card, you do not need to apply for a new PAN number. Authorised providers such as Protean and UTIITSL offer online options for immediate access to your PAN details or to request a replacement card. Depending on your situation, you may also be able to download your e-PAN through the Income Tax Department's e-Filing portal.
You can download an e-PAN for immediate access or request a duplicate physical card. By using official channels, you can securely replace your lost PAN card and continue using your existing PAN number without interruption.
FAQs
What are the steps I should take if I lose my PAN card?
Get an e-PAN or request a duplicate PAN card (PAN reprint), but do not apply for a new PAN number.
Can I download my PAN card online?
Yes. You can download an e-PAN through authorised platforms such as Protean, UTIITSL, or the Income Tax e-Filing portal (where eligible).
How can I get a duplicate PAN card online?
You can request a PAN card reprint through Protean (NSDL) or UTIITSL after completing the required verification and paying the applicable fee.
Is it essential to file an FIR in case of a lost PAN card?
Filing an FIR is optional and might be useful in establishing an official record if you are worried about misuse.
May I use my e-PAN in place of the physical PAN card?
Yes, an e-PAN is a valid electronic form of the PAN card and can be used for most purposes connected with the PAN.
How long does it take to receive a duplicate PAN card?
Delivery timelines may vary depending on the service provider, processing status, communication address, and courier service. Applicants can track their application status using the acknowledgement number provided after submission.
Is a PAN card mandatory for a Personal Loan application?
In most cases, lenders require a PAN card as part of the KYC and verification process when evaluating a Personal Loan application. To understand the documentation and eligibility criteria for a loan, you can visit the Poonawalla Fincorp Personal Loan page.
We take utmost care to provide information based on internal data and reliable sources. However, this article and associated web pages provide generic information for reference purposes only. Readers must make an informed decision by reviewing the products offered and the terms and conditions. Loan disbursal is at the sole discretion of Poonawalla Fincorp.
*Terms and Conditions apply