Linking PAN with Aadhaar is no longer optional. It directly affects income tax filing, refunds, bank transactions, and even high-value financial activities. Many people completed the linking process earlier, yet they are still unsure whether their PAN card is actually linked with Aadhaar or not. This confusion can lead to penalties, inactive PAN status, or tax filing issues.
Knowing how to check PAN card linked with Aadhaar is simple, quick, and can be done online in a few minutes. However, the steps must be followed correctly to avoid errors. The sections below explain every method in a clear and practical way, along with common problems and solutions.
Why PAN and Aadhaar Linking Is Important
Legal requirement under Income Tax Act
PAN–Aadhaar linking is mandatory under Section 139AA of the Income Tax Act. If your PAN is not linked, it may become inoperative. As a result, you may not be able to file income tax returns or complete KYC for financial services.
Impact on income tax filing and refunds
When PAN is not linked with Aadhaar, income tax returns may not be processed. Moreover, refunds can get stuck for months. Many taxpayers realize this problem only after submitting their return, which causes unnecessary stress.
Effect on banking and financial transactions
Banks and financial institutions often verify PAN–Aadhaar linkage during KYC updates. If the linkage status is inactive, services like opening new accounts, applying for loans, or investing in mutual funds may be delayed.
Penalty for not linking PAN with Aadhaar
If PAN is not linked within the prescribed timeline, a penalty may apply. In addition, the PAN may become invalid for most financial purposes. Therefore, checking PAN Aadhaar link status regularly is a smart habit.
How to Check PAN Card Linked with Aadhaar Online
Using the Income Tax e-Filing portal
The easiest way to check PAN Aadhaar link status online is through the official Income Tax Department website. This method works for both salaried individuals and business owners.
First, open the income tax e-filing portal. Look for the option “Link Aadhaar Status” on the homepage. Enter your PAN number and Aadhaar number carefully. After submitting the details, the system will instantly show whether your PAN is linked with Aadhaar or not.
This method does not require login credentials. Therefore, it is suitable for quick verification, especially for senior citizens or first-time users.
Checking status after login
If you already have an e-filing account, log in using your PAN and password. After login, go to the “Profile” section. There, you will find the Aadhaar linking status displayed clearly.
This option is helpful because it also shows whether your Aadhaar is verified. Moreover, it reduces the chances of entering incorrect details.
Common errors while checking status
Sometimes, users see errors due to mismatched name, date of birth, or gender between PAN and Aadhaar records. In such cases, the status may show “Not Linked” even if you attempted linking earlier.
Therefore, always ensure that your personal details are identical in both documents. Small spelling mistakes can cause big issues.
Alternative Methods to Check PAN Aadhaar Link Status
Checking PAN Aadhaar status via SMS
For people who are not comfortable with online portals, SMS is a simple option. You can check PAN Aadhaar link status by sending a message from your registered mobile number.
Type a message in this format: UIDPAN <Aadhaar Number> <PAN Number> and send it to the designated number provided by UIDAI or the Income Tax Department. You will receive a confirmation message shortly.
This method is useful in areas with low internet connectivity. However, ensure that your mobile number is linked with Aadhaar for accurate results.
Using bank or KYC portals
Some banks and financial platforms show PAN–Aadhaar linkage status during KYC verification. For example, when updating bank KYC online, the system may automatically validate your PAN with Aadhaar.
Although this method is indirect, it gives a strong indication of linkage status. However, it should not replace official verification on the income tax portal.
Visiting facilitation centers
If digital methods are confusing, visiting a PAN service center or Aadhaar Seva Kendra can help. Officials can check and confirm the PAN Aadhaar linking status for you.
This option is especially helpful for senior citizens who prefer face-to-face assistance. However, it may involve waiting time and service charges.
What to Do If PAN Is Not Linked with Aadhaar
Steps to link PAN with Aadhaar
If your PAN is not linked, you can complete the process online. Visit the income tax e-filing portal and select the “Link Aadhaar” option. Enter PAN, Aadhaar number, and name as per Aadhaar.
In some cases, you may need to pay a prescribed fee before linking. Once payment is successful, the linking request is processed. As a result, your PAN status becomes active again.
Fixing name or date of birth mismatch
Name mismatch is the most common reason for linking failure. For example, PAN may have initials while Aadhaar has the full name. In such cases, you need to update details either in PAN or Aadhaar records.
Updating Aadhaar details can be done through UIDAI. PAN details can be corrected via NSDL or UTIITSL portals. After correction, linking becomes smooth.
How long does linking take
In most cases, PAN Aadhaar linking is instant. However, if biometric or demographic verification is involved, it may take a few days. Therefore, checking the status after 24–48 hours is recommended.
Common Problems While Checking PAN Aadhaar Link Status
Website not loading or server errors
During peak tax filing seasons, the income tax portal may respond slowly. As a result, users may face errors while checking PAN Aadhaar status.
In such situations, try checking during non-peak hours, such as early morning or late night. Clearing browser cache can also help.
Incorrect details entered
Entering wrong PAN or Aadhaar numbers is a frequent mistake. Even one incorrect digit will show an error or wrong status. Therefore, double-check all details before submission.
Aadhaar not linked with mobile number
If Aadhaar is not linked with your mobile number, OTP-based verification may fail. This issue can be resolved by updating your mobile number at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
PAN showing inoperative status
If PAN remains unlinked for a long time, it may become inoperative. In such cases, linking Aadhaar and paying the applicable fee usually reactivates PAN.
FAQs: How to Check PAN Card Linked with Aadhaar
1. How can I check PAN Aadhaar link status online without login?
You can check PAN Aadhaar link status online without login by visiting the income tax e-filing portal and using the “Link Aadhaar Status” option. Enter your PAN and Aadhaar number to get instant results.
2. How to check if PAN is linked with Aadhaar using mobile SMS?
To check PAN Aadhaar link status via SMS, send UIDPAN <Aadhaar Number> <PAN Number> from your registered mobile number. You will receive a confirmation message shortly.
3. What happens if PAN is not linked with Aadhaar?
If PAN is not linked with Aadhaar, it may become inoperative. As a result, you cannot file income tax returns, receive refunds, or complete financial KYC processes smoothly.
4. How long does it take to update PAN Aadhaar link status after linking?
In most cases, PAN Aadhaar linking status updates instantly. However, if verification is required, it may take 24 to 72 hours to reflect on the portal.
5. Can I check PAN Aadhaar link status using bank KYC?
Some banks show PAN Aadhaar linkage during KYC updates. While this gives an indication, it is always better to verify through the official income tax portal.
6. Why does PAN Aadhaar linking fail due to name mismatch?
PAN Aadhaar linking often fails due to differences in name spelling, initials, or date of birth. Updating details in either PAN or Aadhaar records usually resolves this issue.
7. Is there any fee to link PAN with Aadhaar now?
Yes, if PAN was not linked within the original deadline, a prescribed fee may apply. After payment, PAN Aadhaar linking can be completed online.
Final Thoughts
Checking whether your PAN card is linked with Aadhaar is a small step that prevents big problems. It protects you from tax filing delays, penalties, and inactive PAN issues. The process is simple and takes only a few minutes when done correctly.
If you have not checked your PAN Aadhaar link status recently, doing it today can save time later. Regular verification also ensures smooth banking and financial transactions. Taking action now keeps your financial identity secure and compliant.
