In a significant update, the Income Tax Department has introduced a mandatory Aadhaar-based OTP verification step for individuals registering their Permanent Account Number (PAN) on the official e-filing portal — www.incometax.gov.in.
This change is designed to enhance security and ensure that only genuine users are able to initiate the PAN registration process. Here’s everything you need to know about the new process and what it means for taxpayers.
As part of the updated registration process, individuals must now:
Consent to Aadhaar Authentication: During registration, users must allow validation through the UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) database.
Verify via Aadhaar OTP: A One-Time Password (OTP) will be sent to the mobile number linked with the applicant’s Aadhaar. This OTP must be entered to complete the registration.
Without completing this Aadhaar OTP authentication, the PAN registration process on the Income Tax Department portal cannot proceed.
The mandatory Aadhaar OTP step serves multiple purposes:
✅ Enhanced Identity Verification: Helps prevent fraudulent or duplicate PAN registrations.
✅ Faster PAN-Aadhaar Linking: Simplifies the integration process as required by law.
✅ Legal Compliance: Under Section 139AA of the Income Tax Act, linking PAN with Aadhaar is a legal necessity.
To ensure a hassle-free PAN registration process:
Check Your Aadhaar-Mobile Link: Make sure your Aadhaar is linked to an active mobile number.
Update If Needed: If your Aadhaar is not linked with a mobile number, visit the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra to update your contact details.
Be Ready for OTP: Once linked, keep your mobile device handy to receive and enter the OTP during PAN registration.
The mandatory Aadhaar OTP verification adds an essential layer of security and aligns with the government’s broader digital authentication goals. For individuals looking to register their PAN online, ensuring a valid Aadhaar-linked mobile number is now the first and most critical step.
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