Linking your Permanent Account Number (PAN) card to your bank account isn’t just a good idea; it’s a mandatory requirement in India for several key reasons. It helps the Income Tax Department track high-value transactions, prevents financial fraud, and ensures your KYC (Know Your Customer) details are complete. Most importantly, it saves you from a higher TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) on your interest income.

Thankfully, banks have made this process quite simple. Here’s a breakdown of all the easy ways you can do it.

Method 1: Using Internet Banking (The Easiest Way)

This is the most popular and convenient method if you are comfortable with online banking.

1. Log In: Go to your bank’s official internet banking website and log in with your customer ID and password.
2. Navigate to the Profile or Services Section: Look for options like “Profile,” “My Account,” “Services,” or “Update Details.”
3. Find the PAN Update Option: Inside this section, you’ll find a link that says something like “PAN Registration,” “Link PAN Card,” “Update PAN,” or “PAN Seeding.” Click on it.
4. Enter Your Details: You will be asked to enter your PAN card number and your name exactly as it appears on the PAN card. You might also be asked for your date of birth.
5. Submit and Verify: After entering the details, click “Submit.” You may be asked to enter an OTP (One-Time Password) that is sent to your registered mobile number to confirm the request.

Your PAN will be linked to your account within 2-7 working days. The bank will send you a confirmation via SMS or email.

Method 2: Using Your Bank’s Mobile App

This is just as easy as internet banking, but on your phone.

1. Open and Log In: Open your bank’s official mobile banking app (e.g., SBI Yono, HDFC Bank App, ICICI iMobile Pay) and log in using your MPIN or password.
2. Go to Services/Profile: Tap on the menu and look for a “Services,” “Requests,” “My Profile,” or a similar section.
3. Select the PAN Update Option: You will find an option to “Update PAN,” “Link PAN,” or something similar.
4. Enter and Submit: Enter your PAN number, check the details, and submit the request. You might need to authenticate with an OTP or your transaction PIN.

Method 3: Visiting the Bank Branch (The Offline Method)

If you prefer to do things in person or don’t use online banking, this method is for you.

1. Visit Your Home Branch: Go to the bank branch where you hold your account.
2. Ask for the KYC Form: Ask a bank representative for a “KYC Details Change Form” or a “PAN Updation Form.”
3. Fill Out the Form: Fill in your bank account details (account number, name) and your PAN number correctly.
4. Attach a Self-Attested PAN Copy: You will need to submit a photocopy of your PAN card. Make sure to sign this copy (this is called “self-attestation”).
5. Submit the Documents: Hand over the filled form and the PAN card copy to the bank official. They might ask to see your original PAN card for verification, so it’s a good idea to carry it with you.

The bank will process your request and link your PAN to your account.

Method 4: Through an ATM (Available at Some Banks)

Some banks also offer the facility to link your PAN through their ATM network.

1. Visit an ATM: Go to your bank’s ATM.
2. Insert Your Debit Card: Swipe your card and enter your PIN.
3. Choose the Right Option: Navigate to a menu like “Services,” “Registrations,” or “Other Services.”
4. Select “PAN Registration”: Follow the on-screen instructions to enter your PAN number.
5. Confirm: Confirm the transaction.

Important Points to Remember

• Mandatory for Transactions Above ₹50,000: PAN details are required for any cash deposit or withdrawal of more than ₹50,000 in a single day.
• Avoid Higher TDS: If your PAN is not linked, the bank will deduct TDS on your savings account interest at a higher rate (usually 20%) if your interest income exceeds the limit.
• Name Matching: Ensure that your name on the PAN card and in your bank account records match perfectly to avoid the linking request from being rejected.

Linking your PAN is a quick process that ensures your account remains compliant and secure, so it’s best to get it done as soon as possible.

Read More: A Simple Guide to Linking Your PAN Card to Your Bank Account