How NRIs and Exempt Individuals Can Resolve Aadhaar-PAN Linking Issues for Timely Refunds

The Income Tax Department is sending notices to taxpayers whose PAN is not linked to Aadhaar. Although NRIs and Super Senior Citizens are exempt from this requirement, many still receive these notices, especially when waiting for refunds. Here’s how NRIs and exempt individuals can resolve the issue and ensure their refunds are processed promptly.

Quick Solutions for NRIs and Exempt Individuals:

1. If You Have an Aadhaar:

• Link Aadhaar with PAN by paying a Rs. 1,000 penalty.
• Complete the linking on the PAN-Aadhaar Linking Portal.
• Your PAN will be reactivated, and refunds processed with interest under section 244A.

2. If You Do Not Have an Aadhaar:

NRIs are exempt from Aadhaar-PAN linking under Section 139AA of the Income Tax Act. To claim this exemption, follow these steps:

Steps to Claim Aadhaar-PAN Exemption:

Option 1: Visit the Jurisdictional Income Tax Officer (in person or through a representative):

• Submit the following documents to your Jurisdictional Officer:
  1. Copy of your Passport (issued by your country of permanent residency).
  2. Validated NRO bank account details.
  3. Proof of NRI status (foreign residency proof or visa).

Option 2: Submit Documents via Email and E-Filing Portal:

• Email your Jurisdictional Officer explaining your exemption and attach:
  1. Passport copy.
  2. Validated NRO bank account details.
  3. Proof of foreign residency.
• Log in to the e-filing portal and submit a grievance or refund failure report with the same documents.

Once the officer approves, your PAN will be updated, and refunds processed.

Key Steps for NRIs:

1. If you have Aadhaar: Link it with PAN, pay the Rs. 1,000 fee, and your refund will be processed.
2. If you don’t have Aadhaar:
   • Contact your Jurisdictional Officer via email or in person.
   • Submit passport, NRO bank details, and NRI status proof.
   • Update these on the e-filing portal via the Grievance Redressal section.
3. Ensure your NRO account is validated for easy refund credit.
4. Refunds will be processed with interest once PAN is updated to reflect your exemption.

Important Takeaways:

• NRIs and Super Senior Citizens are exempt from Aadhaar-PAN linking but need to notify the Income Tax Department with supporting documents.
• Submitting documents via email and the portal ensures faster processing and avoids refund delays.

By following these steps, NRIs and other exempt individuals can resolve Aadhaar-PAN linking issues and ensure timely refunds.