What Is the Penalty for Duplicate or Multiple PAN Cards in India?

Many people apply for a new PAN after losing the original one. Later, they realise that they now hold two active PAN numbers. Some people end up with multiple PANs due to errors in legacy applications or data mismatches.

If you have more than one PAN card, it’s important to fix it immediately, because there is a penalty for holding duplicate or multiple PANs. Here’s how the fine works and how to cancel the extra card online.

This guide explains the duplicate or multiple PAN card fine penalty and how to cancel the extra one.

Duplicate PAN Card Penalty Rules Under the Income Tax Act 

The Permanent Account Number is a unique identifier for every taxpayer. Holding more than one is treated as a violation under Indian taxation law. 

Key Regulations

• The Income Tax Act requires every individual to hold only one Permanent Account Number.
• Section 272B of the Act imposes a penalty of ₹10,000 for holding more than one Permanent Account Number.
• The penalty applies even if the duplication happened unintentionally.

Common Reasons for Duplicate PAN

• Applying again after misplacing the original card
• Submitting multiple applications in earlier years
• Data entry or documentation errors leading to separate numbers
• Old records are generating a second Permanent Account Number unintentionally

Action Required 

• Individuals must surrender the extra Permanent Account Number immediately.
• Keeping it active may lead to compliance issues, delays in financial processes, and a potential penalty.
  

I Have Two PAN Cards: Here Is How to Cancel One

If you discover that you hold more than one PAN, the Income Tax Department requires you to surrender the additional one. 

1. Surrender an Extra Permanent Account Number on the Income Tax Portal

Step 1: Visit the Income Tax e-filing portal and log in using PAN and password.
Step 2: Navigate to the Permanent Account Number services section.
Step 3: Select the Surrender Additional PANumber option.
Step 4: Enter the PAN you want to keep and the one you want to cancel.
Step 5: Submit the declaration confirming the surrender request.
Step 6: Verify with the One-Time Password sent to your registered mobile or email.
Step 7: Download the acknowledgement for your records.

2. Cancel an Extra Permanent Account Number Through NSDL (Protean)

Step 1: Visit the NSDL (Protean) PAN correction page.
Step 2: Select Changes or Corrections in Existing PAN Data.
Step 3: Enter the Permanent Account Number you wish to retain.
Step 4: In the dedicated field, enter the duplicate PAN you want to surrender.
Step 5: Upload the required documents and complete the form.
Step 6: Submit using Aadhaar-based e-sign or physical submission, depending on your preference.
Step 7: Save the acknowledgement number for tracking.

3. Cancel an Extra Permanent Account Number Through UTIITSL

Step 1: Go to the UTIITSL PAN correction page.
Step 2: Choose the correction or update request.
Step 3: Enter your active PAN and provide the duplicate number in the cancellation section.
Step 4: Upload the required identity proof and complete Aadhaar-based authentication.
Step 5: Submit the request and keep the coupon number for reference.

4. Surrendering an Extra Permanent Account Number Offline 

If you prefer a physical submission:

Step 1: Download or collect Form 49A (Permanent Account Number correction form).
Step 2: Fill in the Permanent Account Number you want to retain.
Step 3: Clearly enter the PAN to be cancelled in the appropriate field.
Step 4: Attach supporting identity and address documents.
Step 5: Submit the form at any NSDL or UTIITSL service centre.

Need to check the status after submitting your surrender request? Track your PAN Status instantly here.

What are the Documents Required to Surrender an Duplicate PAN?

• Aadhaar/ Passport/ Voter Card/ or Driving Licence
• Copy of the duplicate Permanent Account Number card (if available)
• Copy of the Permanent Account Number to be retained
• Declaration confirming voluntary surrender
• Aadhaar-linked mobile number for one-time password verification

Why Timely Surrender/Cancel of Duplicate PAN Card Is Important?

Holding more than one PAN can create serious compliance and financial issues. Surrendering the extra number on time helps you avoid:

1. Penalties Under the Income Tax Act

As discussed, a penalty of ₹10,000 may be imposed for possessing more than one PAN card, even if the duplication was unintentional.

2. Problems During Income Tax Filing

Multiple PANs can lead to mismatched records, rejected returns, or processing delays for refunds.

3. Banking and Customer Verification Issues

Banks, investment platforms, and insurers may block transactions when multiple PANs appear in your profile.

4. Difficulty Maintaining Financial Records

Having multiple identifiers can lead to inconsistent data across financial institutions, causing confusion during audits or assessments.

Conclusion

Whether the duplicate was issued in error or as part of an old application, it is essential to surrender the extra number without delay. Doing so protects you from penalties, prevents discrepancies in tax records, and ensures smooth processing across banking, investments, and government services.

If your PAN details do not match official records, please follow these steps for PAN Correction

Penalty for Duplicate or Multiple PAN Cards in India | FAQs

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/

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