|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
If you haven’t linked your PAN card with Aadhaar yet, this is a final wake-up call. Tomorrow, 31 December, is the last date. We often delay government formalities, telling ourselves, “I’ll do it tomorrow,” but this time, tomorrow is now.
The government has given a final opportunity, and the message is clear: miss the deadline, and it could cost you. Don’t let procrastination turn into penalties or complications. Act now, before the time runs out.
Why has Aadhaar-PAN Linking become so essential?
According to the Income Tax Department, linking PAN and Aadhaar is no longer just a suggestion; it is a mandatory requirement. If this task is not completed by the set time, your PAN card will become inoperative. This doesn’t mean the card will disappear, but rather that it will become useless: no tax returns, no refunds, and no access to many bank-related services.
Aadhaar-PAN Linking Deadline 2025: Mark the Date
The government has made it clear that December 31, 2025, is the final deadline. If not linked by this date:
- A ₹1,000 late fee must be paid.
- The PAN card will become Inoperative.
However, there is good news. Those who applied for a PAN using an Aadhaar Enrolment ID after October 1, 2024, will be allowed to link it without any fee until December 31, 2025.
ALSO READ | Income Tax Refund Delay 2025: Why Refunds Are Late and When You Can Expect Them
How easy is the Aadhaar-PAN linking process?
People often think that navigating government websites is difficult, but the process here has been kept quite simple. You just need to visit the official Income Tax website, enter your PAN and Aadhaar details, verify via OTP, and your task is done. Usually, the linking is completed within 4 to 5 working days.
What are the consequences of not linking ?
There is some strictness here, and for good reason. If your PAN becomes inoperative:
- Your Income Tax refund may be blocked.
- You will not receive interest on refunds.
- Higher TDS will be deducted from your salary or other income.
In short, it will have a direct impact on your pocket.
What are the benefits of linking on time?
By completing this task before the deadline, you can avoid several hassles:
- Your PAN will remain fully active.
- Tax refunds will be received on time.
- You will be relieved from additional tax deductions.
One small step can save you from a massive headache.
Conclusion
Taking Aadhaar–PAN Linking 2025 lightly is no longer wise. The government has provided an opportunity, which is a relief. But if the time runs out, loss is certain. It is better to settle this task today and free yourself from future worries.
Disclaimer:
This news article is written for general information purposes only. Rules are subject to change from time to time. Always verify with the official Income Tax Department website or your tax advisor before making any decisions.
Dr. Bidyut Barun Sarmah, with 22+ years of experience in print, electronic, and digital media, holds an MA and PhD in Mass Communication and Journalism. He has worked with AIR, Doordarshan, and the Publication Division under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. A published author and researcher, Dr. Sarmah writes extensively in both Assamese and English. He was also awarded a prestigious fellowship by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, for his study on journalistic literature—an achievement that highlights his depth of scholarship and contribution to media studies. At Nest of News, he leads the editorial team and contributes across diverse topics.