As the December 31, 2025 deadline looms, it is crucial for individuals who obtained PAN using an Aadhaar enrolment ID to ensure their PAN and Aadhaar are
linked. Non-linking could render PAN ‘inoperative’, affecting tax filing, refunds, and other financial transactions. For new PAN applicants, Aadhaar-PAN linking happens automatically during the application process. However, existing PAN holders must link their PAN with Aadhaar under Section 139 AA of the Income Tax Act, 1961. A fee of Rs 1,000 may apply if linking is done after the original deadline. Step-By-Step Guide To Link PAN With Aadhaar The Income Tax Department provides an online procedure to link PAN with Aadhaar via the e-filing portal: Visit the Income Tax e-filing portal: https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/ Click on ‘Link Aadhaar’ under ‘Quick Links’ (login not required). Enter PAN, Aadhaar number, and name exactly as in Aadhaar; click “Validate”. Enter the OTP sent to your Aadhaar-registered mobile number. Post-deadline linking requires paying a Rs 1,000 penalty via e-Pay Tax (choose Minor Head). Submit the form. A confirmation message will appear, and status updates typically reflect within 3–5 working days. After submission, verify the status on the portal. Ensure your Aadhaar details, including mobile number, are updated for OTP authentication. Consequences Of Not Linking PAN And Aadhaar Failure to link PAN with Aadhaar by the deadline will render the PAN inoperative from January 1, 2026. This could disrupt: Filing Form 15G/H Demat account opening and transactions (NSDL/CDSL) Investment in RBI bonds (RBI guidelines) ISA account transactions (SEBI guidelines) An inoperative PAN also means existing Forms 15G/H become invalid until linkage is completed. Checking PAN-Aadhaar Link Status You can verify your PAN-Aadhaar linkage online: Visit Link Aadhaar Status Portal Enter PAN and Aadhaar numbers Click ‘View Link Aadhaar Status’ Alternatively, check via SMS by sending: UID PAN <12-digit Aadhaar> <10-digit PAN> to 567678 or 56161.
