What is PAN (Permanent Account Number)?

A Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a ten-character alphanumeric identifier the Income Tax Department issues to a taxpayer. Employers collect it at joining so that tax can be deducted correctly at source and reported against your name in Form 16. Link it with Aadhaar as the department requires.

Example

If you do not give your employer a PAN, TDS on your salary can be deducted at a higher rate. Give the PAN at joining along with your bank details and UAN.

Related

See TDS, Form 16 and UAN.

Related terms and guides

• TDS
• Form 16
• UAN

Sources

• Income Tax Department, Government of India, https://www.incometax.gov.in, live official page, linked for readers; link checked 2026-10-31

This is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change and your situation may differ. Consult a licensed attorney or qualified adviser.