Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a ten-digit alphanumeric number, issued in the form of a laminated card, by an Assessing Officer of the Income Tax Department.

A typical PAN is AFRPP1595D What is the purpose of having a Permanent Account Number (PAN)? It is mandatory to quote PAN on return of income, all correspondence with any income tax authority and challans for any payments due to Income Tax Department.

It is also compulsory to quote PAN in all documents pertaining to economic or financial transactions notified from time-to-time by the Central Board of Direct Taxes.

Some such transactions are sale and purchase of immovable property or motor vehicle or payments to hotels for bills or payments in cash, of amounts exceeding Rs. 25,000/-, in connection with travel to any foreign country.

It is also mandatory to mention PAN for obtaining a telephone or cellular telephone connection.

Likewise, PAN has to be mentioned for making a time deposit exceeding Rs. 50,000/- with a Bank or Post Office or depositing cash of Rs. 50,000/- or more in a Bank.

Yes, it is compulsory to quote PAN on return of income.