Sir, why the allotment of TAN numbers are too much delayed ? Is there any solution ?

As per the NSDL/Protean guidelines, TAN allotment is generally processed within a few working days. However, recently many applicants have been facing delays due to backend verification and system-related issues.

If the application status is still showing “Under Process” for an unusually long period, the applicant may raise a grievance through the Protean (NSDL) helpdesk or submit a complaint through the Income-tax e-Filing grievance portal.

Regarding late filing fees under section 234E (₹200 per day), the fee continues to accrue until the TDS statement is filed, subject to the amount of TDS deductible. Unfortunately, there is presently no specific relief merely because TAN allotment is delayed, although the taxpayer may represent the facts before the department if the delay is entirely due to system issues.

It is advisable to keep records of the TAN application, acknowledgements, emails, and grievance references as evidence of the delay.

To

Sri Aashok FC Advisory,

Thank you for your elaborate reply sir,

E Murali krishna

It is sad to know that you along with many others are experiencing delay in TAN allotment. While TAN is normally issued in a few working days, some applications get stuck up 'Under Process' on account of some verification at the backend from either the Protean (formerly NSDL) or Income-tax Deptt.

I would recommend in case application is dated 20-05-2026 and no confirmation from NSDL, you would:-
1. Check status of application on regular basis using the acknowledgement number.
2. File a grievance with the Protean / NSDL and note down the grievance number for reference.
3. If, in case no action is taken on grievance, file an e-Grievance with Income-tax e-Filing portal, attached therein, the acknowledgement number details.
4. All your mail correspondences, screenshots, proofs of application made have to be kept carefully for proof that delay is not due to the assessee.

Coming to the issue of wrongly indicated Mobile No./Email though correctly given in application it might be a validation error at the end of the system. There seems no need for re-filing an application for TAN unless and until recommended so by Protean. First proceed by way of filing a grievance. It has also been noted amongst Tax practitioners during 2026 in some cases that there is delay in processing applications by NSDL.

The law under section 234E currently does not allow an automatic waiving of late fee solely on account of delay in allotment of TAN. However, keeping of the record of application filed for TAN and correspondence may give you a relief in case some other compliance issue arises at later date.

Hope the TAN is allotted very soon. Kindly update the forum once it is allotted, since this might help some other members also.