New PAN Card Valid Alongside Old One

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Pune: Despite the introduction of the new PAN card with a QR code (PAN 2.0) by the central government, the existing PAN cards will remain valid, and the PAN number will not change. The new card enhances the quality of the existing PAN card, and for individuals to enjoy its benefits, it is advised that they apply for the new e-PAN card, stated senior chartered accountant Dr. Dilip Sathbhai.

The government’s PAN 2.0 initiative was launched with the aim of improving PAN services. Dr. Sathbhai was speaking at a discussion session titled PAN 2.0: Will Your Old PAN Card Be Valid or Do You Need a New One?, organized by the Jagrit Nagarik Manch. The session also saw the presence of platform chairman Vivek Velankar, executive trustee Jugal Rathi, and other distinguished guests.

Dr. Sathbhai provided detailed insights into the history of PAN cards, their features, flaws, and the necessity for the new PAN card. He also addressed queries raised by the audience. He emphasized that the importance of PAN cards is increasing day by day and urged those who have not yet linked their PAN with Aadhaar to complete the process by paying a fine of ₹1,000. Failure to do so has rendered 11.5 crore PAN cards inactive across the country.

Currently, all taxpayers will be provided e-PAN cards free of charge. Existing PAN cards linked with Aadhaar will remain valid. Any changes to the e-mail, mobile number, address, name, or date of birth of the PAN card holder can be done free of charge under the PAN 2.0 project.

For taxpayers in Maharashtra, while applying for a new PAN, they can include both their father’s and mother’s names. Married women are advised not to insist on including their husband’s name during PAN card applications. Additionally, Dr. Sathbhai cautioned that PAN numbers should not be shared with others as it could be misused.