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What To Do When Pan Card Is Lost?

Losing a PAN card can be a stressful experience. PAN Card, short for Permanent Account Number Card, is an essential document for financial transactions in India. It is a unique 10-digit alphanumeric code that identifies an individual or entity in the eyes of the Income Tax Department. PAN card is required for a range of activities, such as opening a bank account, making specific investments, and even getting a passport. If you’ve lost your PAN card, don’t panic. Here’s what you need to do:

1. File an FIR

The first step is to file a First Information Report (FIR) at the nearest police station. The FIR is an essential document that serves as proof of loss or theft of the PAN card. You will need to provide details such as the date and place of loss or theft, your name, and your PAN card number. After filing the FIR, you should obtain a copy of the same for future reference.

2. Apply for a Duplicate PAN Card

The next step is to apply for a duplicate PAN card. You can do this online or offline. Online applications can be made through the UTIITSL or NSDL websites. You will need to fill out the required information, upload a scanned copy of your FIR, and pay the processing fee. Offline applications can be made by downloading the PAN card application form from the UTIITSL or NSDL websites, filling it out, attaching a copy of your FIR, and submitting it at a nearby UTIITSL or NSDL office.

3. Notify Relevant Authorities

It is crucial to notify relevant authorities about the loss of your PAN card. You should inform your bank, credit card companies, investment firms, and other financial institutions with which you have an account. You should also notify the Income Tax Department by submitting a letter along with a copy of your FIR and a copy of your duplicate PAN card application.

4. Check Your Credit Report

It is essential to check your credit report to ensure that no unauthorized transactions have been made using your PAN card. You can obtain your credit report from one of the credit bureaus in India, such as CIBIL, Equifax, or Experian. If you notice any fraudulent activity, you should report it immediately to the credit bureau and the concerned financial institution.

5. Keep Your Duplicate PAN Card Safe

Once you receive your duplicate PAN card, you should keep it in a safe place. It is a good idea to make a copy of it and keep it in a separate location. You should also avoid sharing your PAN card details with anyone and never leave your PAN card or a copy of it lying around.

6. Verify Your PAN Card Details

After receiving your duplicate PAN card, it is essential to verify that all the details are correct. You should ensure that your name, date of birth, and other personal information are accurate. If you notice any errors, you should get them corrected immediately.

7. Apply for Aadhaar

Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It is now mandatory to link your PAN card with your Aadhaar number. If you do not have an Aadhaar card, you should apply for it as soon as possible.

8. Be Vigilant

Finally, you should be vigilant and monitor your financial transactions regularly. You should check your bank statements, credit card statements, and investment transactions for any suspicious activity. If you notice any unauthorized transactions, you should report them immediately to the concerned financial institution.

Conclusion

Losing a PAN card can be a stressful experience, but it is essential to remain calm and take the necessary steps to minimize the impact. By filing an FIR, applying for a duplicate PAN card, notifying relevant authorities, checking your credit report, keeping your duplicate PAN card safe, verifying your PAN card details, applying for Aadhaar, and being vigilant, you can ensure that your financial transactions are secure.

FAQs

  1. How long does it take to receive a duplicate PAN card?

    • It usually takes around 10-15 days to receive a duplicate PAN card.

  2. How much does it cost to apply for a duplicate PAN card?

    • The processing fee for a duplicate PAN card is Rs. 110.

  3. Can I get a PAN card if I do not have Aadhaar?

    • Yes, you can still apply for a PAN card if you do not have Aadhaar. However, it is now mandatory to link your PAN card with your Aadhaar number.

  4. How long is a PAN card valid for?

    • A PAN card is valid for a lifetime.

  5. What should I do if I find my lost PAN card after applying for a duplicate?

    • If you find your lost PAN card after applying for a duplicate, you should surrender it to the Income Tax Department. You cannot use both the original and duplicate PAN cards simultaneously.
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