Linking your PAN with Aadhaar is mandatory for most Indian taxpayers. A special deadline applies for those who obtained PAN using an Aadhaar Enrolment ID before October 1, 2024: December 31, 2025. After this, unlinked PANs become inoperative (cannot use for tax filing, refunds, high-value transactions, etc.). Some cases may involve a ₹1,000 late fee, but certain categories link free until the deadline.
The easiest and most reliable way to check status is through the official Income Tax e-Filing portal—no login required.
Step-by-Step Guide to Check Status
- Visit the official Income Tax e-Filing portal: www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/
- On the homepage, under Quick Links, click Link Aadhaar Status (or directly go to the status check page).
- Enter your PAN number (10 digits) and Aadhaar number (12 digits).
- Click View Link Aadhaar Status (or Validate/Submit).
- The screen will display the status:
- Linked: Your PAN and Aadhaar are successfully linked.
- Not Linked or Pending: You need to link them immediately.
- Any error messages (e.g., name/DOB mismatch).
This process is instant and free.
Alternative Methods
- Via SMS (less detailed, but quick): Send an SMS to 567678 or 56161 in this format: UIDPAN <space> <12-digit Aadhaar> <space> <10-digit PAN> Example: UIDPAN 123456789012 ABCDE1234F You'll get a reply confirming the status.
- Through Registered Account: Log in to the e-Filing portal > Dashboard > Profile > Check Link Aadhaar section.
Important Notes
- If not linked, use the same portal's Link Aadhaar option to complete it (may require OTP on Aadhaar-linked mobile and possible ₹1,000 fee payment via e-Pay Tax).
- Ensure name, date of birth, and gender match exactly on both PAN and Aadhaar—mismatches cause failures.
- Exemptions apply to certain categories (e.g., NRIs, residents of specified states like Assam/Meghalaya/J&K).
- Act before December 31, 2025, to avoid issues from January 1, 2026.
For the latest updates, always refer to the official Income Tax website. If you face issues, raise a grievance on the portal or contact helpline 1800-180-1961.