Can Two People Have Similar PAN Numbers in India?

No, each PAN (Permanent Account Number) issued by the Income Tax Department is unique and designed to distinctly identify individuals or entities. While PANs follow a standard format, no two people can legally have the same or similar PAN, ensuring that every taxpayer has a distinct identity.

• Structure of a PAN Number

• PAN is a 10-character alphanumeric identifier, following the format ABCDE1234F.

• The first 5 characters are letters, the next 4 are numbers, and the last is a letter.

• The fifth character denotes the first letter of the holder’s last name or entity name.

• This structure allows high variation, ensuring unique PAN allocation to every applicant.

• Purpose of Uniqueness in PAN

• PAN is used to track tax liability, TDS, return filing, and high-value transactions.

• Uniqueness prevents duplication, tax evasion, and identity overlap.

• Every PAN is linked to one person/entity’s biographic and financial profile.

• The uniqueness is enforced by validation systems in NSDL, UTIITSL, and CBDT databases.

• Similar PAN Numbers Are Technically Different

• PANs may appear similar due to common surname initials or random sequences.

• For example, AJCPA1234Q and AJCPA1235Q look alike but belong to different individuals.

• No two PANs are exactly the same, and even one digit or letter difference makes them unique.

• Similar-looking PANs can still have entirely different taxpayer data behind them.

• Legal and Compliance Aspects

• Holding or using someone else’s PAN is illegal under Section 272B of the Income Tax Act.

• If duplicate or similar PANs are issued mistakenly, one must be surrendered immediately.

• Using a wrong PAN can lead to penalties, TDS mismatch, or incorrect filing.

• The Income Tax Department actively identifies and deactivates duplicate PANs.

• How to Verify PAN Ownership

• Use the Income Tax portal to verify PAN against name, DOB, or Aadhaar.

• If you suspect someone is misusing a PAN similar to yours, report it via grievance portal.

• Always cross-check PAN during employment, investments, or KYC processes.

• Use NSDL’s or UTIITSL’s tools for PAN verification and correction if needed.