Lost your PAN card? Here is what to do

Your PAN number never changes, so losing the card is easy to fix. You can find the number in minutes and order a reprint of the same card online.

Guide · Last checked 2 November 2026

Do not apply for a new PAN

This is the most important step. Each person can hold only one PAN. Applying for a second one is against the Income Tax Act and can bring a penalty. What you need is a reprint or an e-PAN download of your existing PAN.

Step 1: Find your PAN number

  • Log in to incometax.gov.in. Your PAN is your user ID if you have filed returns.
  • Look at old income tax returns, Form 16, salary slips or Form 26AS.
  • Check bank statements, demat or mutual fund statements, or your insurance policy. Many show the PAN.
  • Search your email for 'PAN' or 'e-PAN'. The allotment mail may still be there.

Step 2: Get an e-PAN right away

An e-PAN is a PDF copy of your PAN card, valid everywhere a PAN card is asked for. You can download it from Protean (NSDL) or UTIITSL, depending on who issued your PAN, using your PAN, Aadhaar and date of birth with an OTP. It is free for a short period after the PAN is issued or updated and costs a small fee after that.

Step 3: Order a reprint of the card

  1. Go to the reprint page on Protean (NSDL) or UTIITSL.
  2. Enter your PAN, Aadhaar number and date of birth.
  3. Confirm with the OTP sent to your registered mobile or email.
  4. Pay the small fee online. It is higher if the card is sent outside India.
  5. The card is sent by post to the address on record. New reprints come as PAN 2.0 cards with a QR code.

A reprint keeps all details the same. If your name, photo or address needs to change, apply for a correction instead.

Should I file a police complaint?

A police complaint is not needed for a reprint. But if your card was stolen, or you think someone could misuse it, file one at your local police station or your state's online police portal and keep a copy. Watch your bank statements and your Form 26AS on the income tax portal for transactions you do not recognise.

If you have no access to the registered mobile

  • Apply for a PAN correction through Protean or UTIITSL to update your mobile and email, with proof of identity and address.
  • Or visit a PAN service centre with your ID proof.

So it does not happen again

  • Keep the e-PAN PDF saved on your phone and in your email.
  • Make sure your PAN is linked with Aadhaar and your mobile and email are up to date, so OTPs reach you.
  • When you give a photocopy, write the purpose and date across it, so it cannot be reused.
  • Never share your PAN photo in public groups or with unknown callers.

Questions people ask

Is my old PAN number still valid?

Yes. Your PAN number stays the same for life. A reprint is the same PAN on a new card.

How long does a reprint take?

Usually a couple of weeks by post. The e-PAN download is immediate.

Can I use e-PAN instead of the card?

Yes. The e-PAN PDF is valid for KYC, banks, investments and tax.

Does a reprint change my details?

No. It prints the details already on record. For changes, apply for correction. See documents required for a PAN card.

Final steps and fees: Protean (NSDL), UTIITSL, incometax.gov.in. Rules change; this page is general information, not legal advice. Kaagaz is not a government service.