TAN Number

What is TAN?

TAN is a unique 10-digit alphanumeric identifier required for individuals and entities involved in Tax Deduction at Source (TDS) or Tax Collection at Source (TCS). It is an essential component of India's tax compliance mechanism. According to Section 203A of IT Act 1961, TAN number must be mentioned on all TDS returns. The TAN number full form is Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number.

What is the Structure of TAN?

The TAN structure consists of 10 characters, with revisions occurring over time. The current structure includes:

• The first 3 alphabets: Represent the jurisdiction code of the holder.

• The 4th alphabet: Represents the initial of the holder's name. Companies or organizations are treated as individuals.

• The next 5 numerals: Serve as exclusive identifying numerals.

• The last alphabet: Acts as a unique identifying entity.

For example, if Mr. Mahesh from Rajasthan files tax returns at source, his TAN number might look like RAJM99999B. For a Delhi-based firm, XYZ Pvt Ltd, the TAN might be DELX12345M.

Why is TAN Important?

Knowing your TAN is imperative as it can lead to difficulties while filing tax returns if you do not have it. A Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number is necessary because:

• Filing TCS or TDS statements is impossible without a TAN.

• It is required when seeking challans for TDS or TCS payments.

• Submitting TDS or TCS certificates is impossible without quoting the TAN number.

• Collecting or submitting a wide variety of IT-related forms is impossible without it.

Exception: The number is not mandatory for any individual who deducts tax under Section 194-1A of the Income Tax Act of 1961. This section applies to taxation for sales consideration of fixed assets like land or a building.

Consequences of Not Quoting TAN

Under Section 272BB(1) of the ITA, 1961, a penalty is imposed if an individual or firm does not obtain a TAN number. Section 272BB(2) can impose a penalty if an incorrect TAN is quoted. The maximum penalty that can be imposed under Section 272BB is Rs. 10,000.

How to Apply for TAN?

There are two types of TAN applications:

• Application for issuance of a new TAN.

• The form for change or correction in TAN for allotted TAN.

The processing fee for the applications is ₹65, including GST. TAN can be obtained through online or offline methods. Most applications are now routed through the online channel due to efficient single-window services.

Online Method

• Visit the official NSDL-TIN website.

• Click on the link, and a ‘Register Yourself’ page will appear. Upload the necessary information correctly.

• An acknowledgement page will appear, containing:

  • A 14-digit unique acknowledgement number.

  • All contact and payment details.

  • Name and status of the applicant.

  • A blank space for signature.

• Print the acknowledgement page and preserve it carefully until the TAN is received.

• Sign in the space provided, ensuring the signature does not spill over. Thumb imprints should be verified and attested by competent authorities.

The payment for online TAN allotment is Rs. 55 plus 18% GST. Payments can be made via cheque, demand drafts, or electronic payments.

Offline Method

For those not familiar with online procedures, the offline method is available.

• Obtain Form 49B and complete all the required details before submitting it to the nearest TIN-FC centre.

• Form 49B can be downloaded for free from the IT department’s official website or obtained at any TIN-FC centre. A legible photocopy of the form is also accepted at NSDL centres.

• Once the form is deposited with all details, the TAN number can be known as soon as the request is processed. No documents need to be submitted when applying offline.

How to Check TAN Application Status?

After applying, the applicant will receive a 14-digit acknowledgement number. To check the status:

• Visit the official portal.

• Select the option ‘TAN’.

• Click on the option ‘Know Status of Application’.

• Select the applicant type.

• Enter the acknowledgement number.

• Enter the captcha.

• Click on ‘submit’.

How to Search for TAN?

If the TAN number is misplaced, it can be checked online:

• Log on to the IT Department’s official website and click on ‘Know your TAN’.

• Select ‘Name’ on the ‘TAN search’ page.

• Select the ‘Category of Deductor’ carefully.

• Select the ‘State’, and enter the ‘Name’ and registered mobile number.

• Click the ‘Continue’ tab.

• Enter the OTP sent to the registered mobile number.

• Click ‘Validate’ to complete the process.

The TAN details will be displayed.

PAN vs. TAN

While the Income Tax Department of India issues both, TAN and PAN differ in several aspects.

TAN Rectification and Customer Support

For any TAN related issues, including cancellation, visit NSDL’s official website to make the necessary changes.

Customer Support:

• Phone: 020 – 27218080

• SMS: Send "NSDLTAN" to 57575