The Aadhaar and PAN linking process in 2025 remains a crucial step for taxpayers in India. Linking these two essential identity documents ensures smooth filing of income tax returns, prevents duplicate records, and avoids penalties from the Income Tax Department. The government has repeatedly extended deadlines in previous years, but as of 2025, the process has become mandatory for all PAN holders.
This article provides a step-by-step guide to link Aadhaar with PAN in 2025, covering online and offline methods, eligibility rules, common errors, and important deadlines.
Why Aadhaar-PAN Linking is Important
The linking of Aadhaar and PAN is not just a compliance requirement—it offers several benefits:
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Prevents duplication of PAN cards
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Helps curb tax evasion and identity fraud
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Mandatory for filing income tax returns
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Ensures smooth financial transactions in banks and other institutions
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Avoids penalties imposed by the government
Eligibility for Linking in 2025
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Who must link: Every individual with both Aadhaar and PAN is required to link the two.
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Exemptions: Certain groups such as Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), individuals above 80 years of age, and residents of Assam, Meghalaya, and Jammu & Kashmir may be exempt from mandatory linking.
Step-by-Step Guide to Link Aadhaar with PAN Online
The Income Tax Department offers a simple online process via its official portal.
Method 1: Through the Income Tax e-Filing Portal
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Visit the Income Tax e-filing website (https://www.incometax.gov.in).
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Under Quick Links, select Link Aadhaar.
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Enter your PAN number, Aadhaar number, and your name as per Aadhaar.
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Verify details and tick the consent box.
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Click on Link Aadhaar.
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You will receive a confirmation message once linking is successful.
Method 2: Through SMS
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Open the SMS app on your phone.
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Type:
UIDPAN <12-digit Aadhaar> <10-digit PAN> -
Send to 567678 or 56161.
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You will receive an SMS confirmation after successful linking.
Method 3: Through Mobile App
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Download the Income Tax Department mobile app or UMANG app.
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Go to the Aadhaar-PAN linking section.
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Enter your Aadhaar and PAN details.
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Authenticate using OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
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Linking is completed instantly.
Offline Methods for Aadhaar-PAN Linking
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Visit PAN Service Centers: Submit a physical Aadhaar-PAN linking request form. Carry a photocopy of Aadhaar and PAN.
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Visit Your Bank Branch: Many banks offer Aadhaar-PAN linking services for their customers.
Deadlines and Penalties in 2025
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The government has set June 30, 2025 as the final deadline for Aadhaar-PAN linking.
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Failure to link by the deadline may result in:
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PAN becoming inoperative
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Penalty of up to ₹1,000
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Restrictions on banking and financial transactions
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Common Errors and Fixes
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Mismatch in Name: Ensure Aadhaar and PAN have the same spelling. If not, update either Aadhaar or PAN before linking.
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Mismatch in Date of Birth: Even small errors can lead to rejection. Update your details online before retrying.
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Inactive Mobile Number: OTP will only be sent to the Aadhaar-registered mobile. Update it if inactive.
How to Check Linking Status in 2025
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Visit the Income Tax e-filing website.
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Select Link Aadhaar Status under Quick Links.
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Enter PAN and Aadhaar details.
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The system will display whether linking is complete or pending.
Key Benefits After Linking
Once successfully linked, users can:
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File tax returns without extra documents
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Avoid penalties for non-linking
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Ensure smooth bank and investment KYC processes
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Have a single, verified identity across government platforms
Comparison Table – Aadhaar-PAN Linking Methods
| Method | Steps | Convenience |
|---|---|---|
| e-Filing Portal | Enter Aadhaar & PAN online, authenticate | High |
| SMS | Send UIDPAN Aadhaar PAN to 567678/56161 | Medium |
| Mobile App | Use ITD/UMANG app with OTP | High |
| Offline | Visit PAN service center or bank branch | Low |
Final Thoughts
The Aadhaar and PAN linking process in 2025 is simple, quick, and essential for financial and tax compliance. With multiple methods available—online portal, SMS, mobile app, and offline centers—users can choose whichever is most convenient.
If you haven’t linked your Aadhaar with PAN yet, make sure to complete the process before the June 30, 2025 deadline to avoid penalties and ensure uninterrupted financial services.
FAQs
What is the last date for Aadhaar-PAN linking in 2025?
The deadline is June 30, 2025.
Can I link Aadhaar and PAN via SMS?
Yes, send an SMS in the format UIDPAN Aadhaar PAN to 567678 or 56161.
What happens if I don’t link Aadhaar with PAN?
Your PAN will become inoperative, and you may face penalties up to ₹1,000.
Is Aadhaar-PAN linking mandatory for NRIs?
No, NRIs are exempt from mandatory linking.
How can I check if my Aadhaar is already linked with PAN?
You can check the status on the Income Tax e-filing portal under Link Aadhaar Status.