PAN Card Mistakes - How to Avoid Them While Applying?

PAN or Permanent Account Number is one of the most requisite documents for financial transactions. It is a unique alphanumeric code allotted to an individual or a corporate entity by the Income Tax Department of the Government of India.

The PAN can be required for numerous purposes, from something as small as owning a cell phone number to as big as investing in mutual funds, buying a car, or opening a bank account. PAN is mandatory not only for taxpayers but also for every individual.

Being an important document of national value, the PAN Card application has to be filled out with great care in order to avoid mistakes. Sometimes in spite of the precautions taken, certain errors tend to occur.

Updated On - 05 Sep 2025
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Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying for a PAN Card

  1. Incorrect Signature - One of the important things for any form is the applicant's signature. There are two places where the applicant will be required to sign - across the photo and in the space provided below. Signing anywhere outside these two allotted places can result in an error which needs to be rectified.
  2. Signing in Blue Ink- Most of the Government identity forms require being signed in black ink. However, not many adhere to it and may use blue ink to sign. It is essential to stick to the rules and sign only in black, to avoid any delays in receiving the PAN Card.
  3. Using Initials - Many people have initials in their names and use the same while filling out the PAN Card application form. The Income Tax Department, however, does not accept initials. Hence it is advisable to use full names instead of initials.
  4. Scanned Copies of Photos -Just like every other form, PAN Card application also requires two passport sized photos to be affixed in the form. Many a time, people tend to attach scanned copies of their photos, which is a mistake. Scanned photos are not that clear and may make identification of the applicant, difficult. Hence, only original photos should be attached in the form.
PAN Card Mistakes to Avoid

How to Correct PAN Card Mistakes?

It is always advised to double check the data while applying for new PAN Card. In case, any wrong information has been filled accidentally, or there is an unclear signature, photo, etc. corrections can be made. Here's how to amend incorrect information in the application:

  1. To download the PAN change request form, go to the official website of the IT department and click on "Online Application for Changes or Correction in PAN Data".
  2. Scroll down on the page opened and select the required field.
  3. "Request for New PAN Card or/and Changes or Correction in PAN Data" which is a new online form will open. Make necessary changes and fill in the application carefully. Once done, go through the form again to see if any more corrections are needed and click on 'Submit'.
  4. After the specified payment, through any of the given modes, an acknowledgement will be downloaded, which needs to be saved for further reference. Relevant documents, along with the acknowledgement should be sent to the following address:

Corrections for PAN can also be applied online through UTIITSL. The official website will have a corrections form, wherein the right details have to be filled. After the applicant has made the necessary changes and paid the fees, a receipt is generated which can be used as reference. The updated PAN Card will be sent by post to the address mentioned in the form by the applicant.

FAQs on PAN Card Mistakes

  • How can I correct my date of birth on my PAN Card?

    Fill out a correction form online and upload a valid proof of birth document.

  • What should I do if my name is misspelled on the PAN Card?

    Submit a PAN card correction form online through the NSDL or UTIITSL portal with the correct name and supporting documents.

  • What if the photograph on my PAN Card is incorrect or unclear?

    Apply for a reprint through the correction form and upload a clear, recent photograph.

  • How long does it take to get a corrected PAN Card?

    It usually takes 15-20 working days after submitting the correction request and documents.

  • Can I update my PAN Card if I signed incorrectly while applying?

    Yes, submit a correction form and provide a valid signature in the appropriate section.

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