PAN Format Validator

Check 10-character PAN card format validity and identify holder type (Individual, Company, HUF, Firm, Trust).

Interactive PAN Format Validator
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Formula & Calculation Methodology

PAN structure: 3 letters (Series) + 1 letter (Status of Holder) + 1 letter (Surname initial) + 4 digits (Sequential) + 1 letter (Check digit).

Step-by-Step Worked Example

PAN: ABCDE1234F

  1. 1. Verify length = 10 characters
  2. 2. First 3 letters (ABC): Alphabetic series
  3. 3. 4th letter (D): Holder Category (D = Duplicate / Trust or P = Individual)
  4. 4. 5th letter (E): First character of taxpayer last name
  5. 5. Digits 6-9 (1234): Sequential numeric series
  6. 6. 10th letter (F): Alphabetic check character
Result: Format: Valid 10-Character Structure | Entity Status: Verified

What is a Permanent Account Number (PAN)?

A Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a 10-character alphanumeric identifier issued by the Indian Income Tax Department to all legal entities, individuals, firms, and companies for financial tracking and tax filing.

Significance of the 4th Letter in PAN

  • P = Individual (Personal)
  • C = Company
  • H = Hindu Undivided Family (HUF)
  • F = Partnership Firm / LLP
  • A = Association of Persons (AOP)
  • T = Trust
  • B = Body of Individuals (BOI)
  • G = Government Agency
  • J = Artificial Juridical Person

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the 4th character in PAN mean?

The 4th letter indicates holder type: P for Individual, C for Company, H for HUF, F for Firm.

Can an individual hold more than one PAN card?

No, holding more than one active PAN card is illegal under Section 272B of the Income Tax Act, 1961 and carries a penalty of ₹10,000.

Is PAN linking with Aadhaar mandatory in India?

Yes, linking your PAN with your Aadhaar number is legally mandatory for filing Income Tax Returns and avoiding PAN deactivation.

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