How To Check PAN Aadhaar Linking Status Online
Check your PAN, Aadhaar linking status quickly in 2026 via the Income Tax e-Filing portal's "Link Aadhaar Status" tool (no login needed), SMS, or dashboard. Learn what statuses like "inoperative" mean and the next steps.
by Alaguvelan M
Published Feb 26, 2026 | Updated Feb 26, 2026 | 📖 5 min read
How To Check PAN Aadhaar Linking Status? (2026 Guide)
PAN and Aadhaar linking is mandatory under Indian tax laws to ensure seamless ITR filing, avoid higher TDS/TCS rates, and keep your financial transactions smooth.
If your PAN isn't linked (or was linked late), it can become "inoperative," meaning restrictions on tax refunds, high-value dealings, banking KYC, and more.
Key Takeaway: The fastest way is to head to the Income Tax e-Filing portal → Quick Links → Link Aadhaar Status → enter your PAN and Aadhaar → click “View Link Aadhaar Status”.
What Is PAN–Aadhaar Linking Status?
- It shows whether your PAN and Aadhaar are successfully connected in the Income Tax Department's database.
- This status is crucial for filing ITRs without issues, completing KYC for banks/Demat accounts, and handling transactions above certain limits.
- An inoperative PAN (due to non-linking) blocks many services like tax refunds, higher TDS deductions at 20%, and even some investments until resolved.
How To Check PAN Aadhaar Linking Status Online (Without Login)
This is the quickest pre-login method, no account required.
- Visit the official Income Tax e-Filing portal at incometax.gov.in.
- On the homepage, look for the Quick Links section and click Link Aadhaar Status.
- Enter your PAN and Aadhaar number in the fields provided.
- Click View Link Aadhaar Status.
- The screen displays the current status: linked, not linked, in progress, inoperative, or details mismatch.
How To Check PAN–Aadhaar Linking Status After Login
If you already have an account on the portal:
- Log in to the Income Tax e-Filing portal using your PAN and password/OTP.
- From your Dashboard, click Link Aadhaar Status (often under quick options or profile).
- Alternatively, go to My Profile → Link Aadhaar Status.
- If linked, your Aadhaar number and "linked" status appear. If not, you may see options to link or pay the fee (₹1,000 for late cases).
How To Check PAN–Aadhaar Linking Status By SMS
For a mobile-friendly option without internet:
Many users verify via SMS from their registered mobiles. Send a message in the format UIDPAN <12-digit Aadhaar number> <10-digit PAN> to 567678 or 56161. You'll get a reply SMS confirming if they are linked, not linked, or inoperative.
PAN–Aadhaar Link Status Messages and Their Meaning
Here's a clear breakdown of common statuses:
| Status Message | What It Means | What You Should Do |
|---|---|---|
| PAN and Aadhaar are linked / Already Linked | Linking is successful; PAN is fully operative. | Use your PAN normally for ITR, banking, and transactions—no action needed. |
| Your Aadhaar–PAN linking request is in progress | Request submitted and pending UIDAI validation. | Wait 1–2 days (sometimes longer) and recheck online. |
| PAN not linked with Aadhaar | No valid linkage found. | Link immediately via the portal; pay ₹1,000 fee if applicable. |
| PAN is inoperative due to non-linkage of Aadhaar | PAN was deactivated because the linking deadline was missed. | Link PAN with Aadhaar + pay ₹1,000 penalty to reactivate. |
| Details do not match with Aadhaar | Name, DOB, or gender mismatch between records. | Update details in Aadhaar (via UIDAI) or PAN, then retry linking. |
Why Your PAN May Show as Inoperative
- Linking is required under the Income Tax Act for most taxpayers to stay compliant.
- Missing the notified deadline (e.g., earlier general deadlines or Dec 31, 2025, for specific enrolment-ID cases) makes PAN inoperative from the next day.
- Consequences include blocked refunds, higher TDS/TCS (often 20%), and issues with bank accounts, Demat, or investments.
- Exemptions apply to NRIs, non-residents, very senior citizens (80+), and certain others, check official notifications for your case.
What To Do If PAN Is Not Linked With Aadhaar
If the status shows "not linked" or "inoperative," act quickly:
- Visit the e-Filing portal → Quick Links → Link Aadhaar.
- Enter PAN, Aadhaar, and mobile number; pay the ₹1,000 penalty via e-Pay Tax if required (for late linking).
- Validate with OTP, submit the request, and wait a few days for processing.
- Recheck status afterward.
For the full detailed process, refer to our guide on How to Link Aadhaar with PAN (or the official user manual).
Common PAN–Aadhaar Link Status Errors and How To Fix Them
- Name/DOB/gender mismatch — Update your Aadhaar at a UIDAI center or online, or correct PAN details, then retry.
- Aadhaar not linked to mobile — Link your mobile to Aadhaar first for OTPs (essential for verification).
- Multiple requests pending — Avoid duplicates; wait a few days and check status instead.
- Portal technical glitch — Try later, clear cache, or use the SMS/alternate login method.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this guide is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, financial, or tax advice. The procedures and deadlines for linking your PAN with Aadhaar may change, and it is essential to consult the official Income Tax Department website or a qualified professional for up-to-date details. Always ensure that the information you provide on government portals is accurate, and follow the official guidelines to avoid penalties or delays. This content should not be used as a substitute for professional advice and guidance.
How To Check PAN Aadhaar Linking Status - FAQ's
1. How can I quickly check if my PAN is linked with Aadhaar?
Use the pre-login "Link Aadhaar Status" on the Income Tax e-Filing portal—enter PAN and Aadhaar for instant results.
2. Can I check PAN–Aadhaar linking status without logging into the Income Tax portal?
Yes, the Quick Links → Link Aadhaar Status option works without login; SMS is another no-login alternative.
3. What does “PAN inoperative due to non-linkage of Aadhaar” mean?
Your PAN is deactivated for tax/financial use until linked + penalty paid, leading to blocked refunds and higher TDS.
4. Can I check PAN–Aadhaar linking status by SMS?
Yes—send UIDPAN <Aadhaar> <PAN> to 567678 or 56161 from your registered mobile for a reply confirmation.
5. What should I do if my PAN–Aadhaar link status shows “details do not match”?
Correct mismatches in name/DOB/gender via UIDAI (Aadhaar) or PAN portal, then attempt linking again.