A Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a unique alphanumeric code that serves multiple purposes, such as being a proof of identity, opening a bank account, buying a car, and paying taxes. Some common PAN card mistakes while applying for the card include-incorrect inputs of name, PIN code, the incorrect format of a photograph, etc.

While filling out details, one must rectify mistakes by visiting the NSDL official website and updating the required credentials. A step-by-step guide follows.

Here are the pointers describing common mistakes to avoid while applying for a PAN card:

• Relating to Signature: A person applying for A PAN card needs to be mindful that there are 2 allotted spaces for signing the document. One is across the photo, and another is below, in a blank box. Signing elsewhere results in an error that would need rectification.
• Mistakes Concerning Name Input: One should fill in his/her full name, not abbreviations or initials. Spelling mistakes are other instances that need rectification.
• Incorrect Address: Mistakes relating to inputs of postal addresses and PIN codes are common. Hence, one needs to be extra careful feeling up these details.
• Using Scanned Copies of Photograph: People often use scanned copies of photographs that may be unclear in physical copies. Hence, it is necessary to put in an original passport-size photograph while applying for a PAN card.
• Signing in Blue Ink: People often make the mistake of signing photographs and documents in blue ink. It is mandatory to use black ink while signing over photographs and the other slot for signature in the document.

Follow the list of steps below to rectify mistakes in your PAN card:

Step 1: Visit the official website of NSDL.

Step 2: Click on ‘Application Type’

Step 3: Now, click on 'Changes/Correction to PAN Card

Step 4: Select the category and fill in the details under 'Application Information', including your first name, middle name, surname, date of birth, mobile number, and email ID

Step 5: Now, click on the checkbox confirming you are an Indian citizen

Step 6: Enter PAN number

Step 7: Enter the CAPTCHA code and click on 'Submit'

Step 8: Your registered token number appears on the screen and will be sent to your email ID

Step 9: Click on the button at the bottom of the page

Step 10: Enter the required information left to be filled

Step 11: Make the changes needed and double-check the details

Step 12: Now, submit the form and the required documents and click 'save draft'

Step 13: Make payment to complete the process for correction of PAN card mistakes

Step 14: After completing all the above steps, one will receive a PAN acknowledgement number of 15 digits

The following are the ways to check PAN Card correction application status:

• Enquire through Online Service Providers: One can check one's PAN card application status via online service providers, such as TIN NSDL, UTIITSL, and eMudhra. However, one must remember to check the status from the same website they used while applying for PAN.
• Check Via Call Services: A person can track his/her PAN card status by calling the TIN call centre at 020-27218080. One simply needs to state the 15 digits PAN acknowledgement number of 15 digits to acquire information about application status.
• Track Via SMS Services: An individual can track his/her PAN application status via SMS-generated updates. To receive updates, one needs to send one's PAN application number of 15 digits to 57575.

PAN, a ten-digit alpha-numeric code, which the Income Tax department allots to anyone whose income is taxable, has discussed multi-faceted usages. As a result of its high functionality, the government has chalked out easy ways to apply for the card.

Multiple PAN card mistakes are probable to occur while filling out application forms. Deal with these mistakes by updating your information with the help of the steps mentioned above.