The deadline to link your PAN (Permanent Account Number) with Aadhaar is fast approaching. As per current income tax rules, taxpayers must complete PAN-Aadhaar linking on or before December 31, 2025 to keep their PAN active. Failure to do so may lead to serious financial and compliance issues starting January 1, 2026.
If you haven’t linked your PAN yet, this guide explains why it’s mandatory, who needs to do it, how to link step-by-step, fees involved, and what happens if you miss the deadline.
Why PAN-Aadhaar Linking Is Mandatory
Linking PAN with Aadhaar helps the government:
- Eliminate duplicate or fake PAN cards
- Improve transparency in tax filing
- Strengthen identity verification for financial transactions
For taxpayers, linking ensures uninterrupted access to:
- Income tax return filing
- Tax refunds
- Banking and investment services
- KYC-based financial activities
An unlinked PAN may become inoperative, making it unusable for most financial purposes.
PAN-Aadhaar Linking Deadline: Key Dates
- Last date to link PAN with Aadhaar: December 31, 2025
- PAN becomes inoperative if not linked: January 1, 2026
Once inoperative, PAN cannot be used for filing returns, opening bank accounts, or high-value transactions until it is linked.
Who Must Link PAN With Aadhaar
You must complete PAN-Aadhaar linking if:
- You are an Indian taxpayer holding both PAN and Aadhaar
- Your PAN was issued using an Aadhaar Enrolment ID
- You want to continue filing income tax returns or carry out financial transactions
Important: Ensure that your name, date of birth, and gender match on both PAN and Aadhaar before linking.
How to Link PAN With Aadhaar: Step-by-Step Guide
Method 1: Link PAN-Aadhaar via Income Tax Portal (With Login)
- Visit the Income Tax e-Filing portal
- Log in using your PAN and password
- Go to Profile → Link Aadhaar
- Enter your PAN and Aadhaar numbers
- Verify details and authenticate using OTP
- Submit the request and wait for confirmation
Method 2: Link PAN-Aadhaar Without Login
- Open the Income Tax e-Filing portal homepage
- Click on Link Aadhaar under Quick Links
- Enter PAN and Aadhaar details
- Verify using OTP sent to your Aadhaar-registered mobile number
- Submit the request
PAN-Aadhaar Linking Fee
- A ₹1,000 fee may be applicable in many cases
- Payment must be completed before submitting the linking request
- No additional penalty if linked before the deadline
The fee payment option is available directly on the Income Tax portal.
How to Check PAN-Aadhaar Linking Status
- Visit the Income Tax e-Filing portal
- Click on Link Aadhaar Status
- Enter your PAN and Aadhaar numbers
- View the current linking status instantly
Consequences of Not Linking PAN With Aadhaar
If PAN is not linked by December 31, 2025:
- PAN will become inoperative
- Income tax returns cannot be filed
- Refunds may be delayed or blocked
- Higher TDS/TCS rates may apply
- Bank accounts, investments, and KYC processes may face issues
Restoring an inoperative PAN requires linking Aadhaar and may take additional time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I link PAN with Aadhaar after December 31, 2025?
Yes, but your PAN will remain inoperative until linking is completed, affecting financial transactions.
What if my PAN and Aadhaar details don’t match?
You must update either PAN or Aadhaar details before linking to avoid failure.
How long does PAN-Aadhaar linking take?
In most cases, linking is confirmed within a few days after OTP verification.
Final Thoughts
PAN-Aadhaar linking is no longer optional. With the December 31, 2025 deadline approaching, completing the process early can help you avoid penalties, service disruptions, and last-minute stress. If your PAN is still unlinked, take action now to stay compliant and financially uninterrupted.
