All you need to know about PAN 2.0

New Delhi, Nov 26 – Following the approval of the PAN 2.0 project by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, the Income Tax Department has issued a detailed clarification on the initiative through a set of 11 frequently asked questions (FAQs). This project aims to modernize taxpayer registration services and streamline PAN-related processes.

What is PAN 2.0?

PAN 2.0 is an e-Governance initiative by the Income Tax Department designed to revamp business processes for taxpayer registration. By leveraging advanced technology, it aims to enhance PAN services, integrate TAN-related processes, and offer seamless PAN authentication for agencies like financial institutions and government departments.

Key Features of PAN 2.0

1. Unified Platform: All PAN and TAN services, previously spread across three different portals, will now be consolidated into a single ITD portal. Services like PAN allotment, updates, corrections, Aadhaar linking, and e-PAN requests will be streamlined.
2. Paperless Processes: PAN-related services will become fully digital, reducing dependency on physical paperwork.
3. Free Services for Taxpayers: Updates and corrections will be offered free of charge. A physical PAN card will be available for a nominal fee of ₹50 (domestic) or ₹15 plus actual postage charges for international delivery.

FAQs Addressed

1. Do Existing PAN Holders Need to Apply Again?
   No, current PAN holders are not required to reapply. Existing PAN cards will remain valid.
2. Can PAN Details Be Updated?
   Yes, updates like name, address, or contact information can be made free of charge through online services.
3. What About Old PAN Cards Without QR Codes?
   QR codes, introduced in 2017-18, will continue in PAN 2.0 with enhanced features. Holders of older cards can request an updated card with a QR code.
4. Delivery of PAN Cards:
   A new card will only be issued if requested. Address updates can be done online using Aadhaar-based services.
5. Role of PAN as a Common Business Identifier:
   As per Budget 2023, PAN will serve as a unified identifier for business activities across specified government systems.
6. Handling Duplicate PANs:
   Enhanced systems will detect and prevent duplicate PAN issuance. Individuals with multiple PANs must report them to the Assessing Officer for deactivation.

Advantages of PAN 2.0

The revamped system promises quicker and more efficient service delivery, reduced delays in grievance redressal, and a more robust mechanism to identify and eliminate duplicate PANs.

For further updates, taxpayers can visit the official ITD portal or use the existing services for corrections and updates until PAN 2.0 is fully implemented.