Surrender pan process

If a person has been allotted more than one PAN, they should retain the PAN that is currently being used for filing returns, linked with Aadhaar, bank accounts, etc., and surrender the duplicate PAN.

Process for surrendering duplicate PAN:

1. Log in to the Income Tax e-Filing portal.
2. Navigate to Services → Request for New PAN Card / Changes or Correction in PAN Data (or submit PAN correction request through NSDL/Protean).
3. Mention the PAN to be retained and the duplicate PAN to be surrendered.
4. Alternatively, a signed letter/application can be submitted to the jurisdictional Assessing Officer mentioning both PANs and requesting cancellation of the duplicate PAN.
5. Keep a copy of the acknowledgment and verify that the duplicate PAN is deactivated.

Important: Under Section 139A of the Income-tax Act, holding more than one PAN is not permitted. Before surrendering, ensure that all financial records, bank accounts, demat accounts, TDS records, and Aadhaar are linked with the PAN being retained.