Missed PAN linking with Aadhar? Here's how you can still file your ITR

The deadline for individuals who do not need an audit for FY 2023-24 to submit their ITR is July 31, 2024.

An inoperative PAN is when it’s not linked with the taxpayer’s Aadhaar number.

Filing for an income tax return can be challenging if you have not linked your PAN with your Aadhaar by the June 2023 deadline given by the government.

Not linking the PAN with the Aadhaar renders it inoperative. However, it is still active and can be used to file the income tax return as per the clarification provided by the income tax department.

The deadline for individuals who do not need an audit for the Financial Year 2023-24 (Assessment Year 2024-25) to submit their Income Tax Returns (ITR) is July 31, 2024.

What is an inoperative PAN?

An inoperative PAN is when it’s not linked with the taxpayer’s Aadhaar number.

How to file an ITR if PAN is inoperative?

“One may pay the income taxes due and file the Income Tax Return (ITR) irrespective of PAN becoming inoperative,” Vijay Bharech, Director at Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP told livemint.com.

It’s important to note that the process of filing income tax returns remains the same even if your PAN is inactive.

You can simply log in to your account on the income tax e-filing portal and follow the steps outlined for filing income tax returns.

“You can simply log in to your account on the income tax e-filing portal and follow the steps outlined for filing income tax returns. This typically involves navigating to the e-file section, selecting the option for income tax return filing, and proceeding with the necessary details and documentation,” said Abhishek Soni, CEO and Co-founder of Tax2win.

Income tax refund process

However, having an inactive PAN will lead to various repercussions. If you file an Income Tax Return (ITR) with an inactive PAN, you won’t be able to claim a refund or interest on any refunds. Linking Aadhaar and PAN is compulsory for refund claims.

“The refund, if any is due, will not be issued to the taxpayer, and the interest on the refund shall be paid only from the date the PAN becomes operative,” said Bharech.

Deadline for updated ITR

If you missed submitting your original income tax return (ITR), you still have the opportunity to file an updated return before March 31, 2024.

Taxpayers have the option to file updated returns for any of the assessment years 2021-22, 2022-23, and 2023-24. However, it’s important to note that any additional tax owed must be paid along with the updated return.