How to Surrender a PAN Card: A Comprehensive Guide

Surrendering a PAN (Permanent Account Number) card may be necessary in various situations:

Why Surrender a PAN Card?

• Foreign Nationals: When leaving India and ceasing tax payments, foreign nationals should surrender their PAN card by writing to the Income Tax Assessing Officer.
• Duplicate PAN Cards: If you have multiple PAN cards due to errors or multiple applications, surrender the duplicates. Holding more than one PAN card is illegal and can attract penalties.
• Deceased Holder: The PAN card of a deceased individual should be surrendered to avoid misuse. This can be done by family members or legal representatives.
• Closure of Firms: PAN cards issued to firms, partnerships, or companies should be surrendered if the entity is dissolved or shut down.

Process for Surrendering a PAN Card

Online Method

1. Visit the Income Tax Department Website: Go to the 'Surrender Duplicate PAN' option on the Income Tax Department's website.
2. Fill in Details: Provide information about the duplicate PAN numbers and the PAN card you wish to retain. Enter personal details such as name, date of birth, and contact information.
3. Submit the Form: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process and print the acknowledgment.

Offline Method

1. Write a Letter: Address the letter to the Assessing Officer under whose jurisdiction your taxes are filed. Include:
   • Full name
   • Date of birth (or date of incorporation for companies)
   • PAN card number to be retained
   • Details of the duplicate PAN card being surrendered
2. Submit the Letter: Mail or hand-deliver the letter to the nearest tax office. Retain the acknowledgment receipt as proof of submission.
3. Alternative Option: Fill out Form 49A for PAN correction and submit it to a UTI or Protean eGov Technologies Limited TIN facilitation center.

Special Circumstances

• Deceased PAN Holder: Relatives should draft a letter to the Income Tax Officer with a copy of the death certificate, mentioning the reason for surrender and including the PAN card details.
• Firm/Partnership/Company:
  • Online: Visit the Protean eGov Technologies Limited TIN website, complete Form 49A, and submit it online. Print the acknowledgement and send it with necessary documents to the address provided.
  • Offline: Write to the Income Tax Officer, attaching a copy of the dissolution deed, PAN card, and acknowledgment of the return for the discontinuation period.

Things to Consider

• Understand the Reason: Clearly identify why you need to surrender the PAN card.
• Documentation: Ensure all necessary documents are valid and up-to-date.
• Choose Method: Decide between online or offline based on convenience.
• Follow Guidelines: Adhere to the guidelines provided by the Income Tax Department for accurate submission.
• Seek Assistance: Contact the helpline or a tax professional if needed.
• Update Records: Notify banks and financial institutions of the surrender.
• Keep Copies: Retain copies of all documents and receipts for your records.
• Follow Up: If you don't receive acknowledgement or a response, follow up with the Income Tax Department.

FAQs on PAN Card Surrender

Is there a fee for surrendering a PAN card?

Typically, there is no fee for surrendering a PAN card. However, fees apply for applying for a new PAN card or making changes. The fee is Rs. 96 (Rs. 85 for the application plus service tax).

Can I cancel my personal PAN card?

If you have multiple PAN cards, retain the one you use regularly. Cancel the duplicates using Form 49A or through the Income Tax Department's online portal.

How long does it take for PAN card deactivation?

The process usually takes 10 to 15 days. Confirmation will be sent once the request is processed.

Is it necessary to surrender a PAN card after death?

While not legally required, it's advisable to surrender the PAN card of a deceased person to prevent misuse.

Can I get a refund for a PAN card application?

Refunds are available if the application process fails due to demographic verification issues.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process for surrendering a PAN card, including the reasons for surrender, detailed steps, and answers to common questions.