Complete guide to TAN verification: Methods and FAQs

Understand how to verify your Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN) with ease. Our guide covers online verification processes through the Income Tax Department’s e-Filing website, including how to search by TAN number or name. Learn about the necessity of a TAN

Understanding TAN Verification

A Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN) is a mandatory 10-digit alphanumeric code used by entities that deduct or collect tax at source (TDS/TCS). TAN verification ensures the correct TAN is quoted in challans, statements, and returns, enabling accurate tracking of TDS/TCS transactions through the Income Tax Department’s systems.


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TAN Format and Example

  1. First 4 characters: Capital letters (derived from jurisdiction and name).
  2. Characters 5 to 9: Numeric digits.
  3. 10th character: A capital letter.
  4. Example TAN: PDES03028F

Who Must Obtain a TAN

Every deductor/collector responsible for TDS/TCS—including central/state government entities, companies, firms, LLPs, local authorities, and other organizations—must obtain a TAN and quote it in all TDS/TCS-related payments and filings.

How to Verify a TAN Number Online

Use the Income Tax Department’s e-Filing portal to perform TAN verification and confirm status/details.

  1. Visit the e-Filing Website
    1. Go to the Income Tax Department’s e-Filing website.
  2. Access TAN Verification
    1. Under “Services,” click “Know Your TAN.”
  3. Choose Deductor Category
    1. Select the relevant category, such as
      1. Central/State Government
      2. Statutory Bodies
      3. Autonomous Bodies
      4. Local Authorities
      5. Companies, Firms, etc.
  4. Search by Name or TAN
    1. By Name: Enter the deductor name, select the category, and click “Submit.”
    2. By TAN: Enter the 10-digit TAN, select the category, and click “Submit.”
  5. Enter Captcha
    1. Complete the captcha and click “Submit” to view verification results.

TAN Verification by Name

  1. Access the Website
    1. Open the e-Filing portal and select “Know Your TAN | AO.”
  2. Log In
    1. Use your User ID and password to sign in.
  3. Search by Name
    1. Under “TAN Search,” choose “Name,” enter the deductor name and category, and then submit.
  4. View Results
    1. Review the TAN details mapped to the entered name.

TAN Verification by Number

  1. Visit the Website
    1. Go to the e-Filing portal and click “Know Your TAN | AO.”
  2. Log In
    1. Sign in with your credentials.
  3. Enter TAN Number
    1. Under “TAN Search,” choose “TAN,” enter the 10-digit TAN, and submit.
  4. View Information
    1. Confirm the entity details associated with the TAN number.


FAQs on TAN Verification

  1. What if I deduct TDS without a TAN?
    1. TAN is mandatory for all TDS/TCS activities. Non-compliance can attract penalties up to ₹10,000 and rejection of TDS returns.
  2. How to get a TAN?
    1. Apply online/offline using Form 49B via Protean eGov Technologies Limited (TIN-FC centers/website). The application fee is ₹62.
  3. Accepted Payment Modes for TAN Application
    1. Credit card
    2. Debit card
    3. Net banking
    4. Demand draft
    5. Cheque
  4. Can I verify the TAN of someone who deducted TDS from my payment?
    1. Yes. Use “Know Your TAN” to search by TAN or full name and verify the deductor’s details.
  5. Is TAN necessary if I already have a PAN?
    1. PAN identifies taxpayers; TAN is required specifically for entities responsible for TDS/TCS. Both serve different purposes.

Compliance Notes for TAN Holders

Always quote your TAN in challans, TDS/TCS statements, certificates, and returns. Regularly perform TAN verification to avoid data entry errors, ensure deductor details are accurate, and maintain full TDS/TCS compliance on the Income Tax e-Filing systems.