PAN Format Explained
Every PAN follows a strict 10-character format. Let's break down what each part means using an example:
Characters 1-5: Name Prefix
Five uppercase alphabetic characters (A-Z) derived from your name. These letters are typically the first two letters of your surname and first three letters of your given name, but the exact derivation may vary.
Characters 6-9: Date Code
Four numeric digits (0-9) representing date information. For individuals, this typically represents birth year (2 digits), month, and day. For entities like companies, it represents registration or incorporation date.
Character 10: Check Digit
A single uppercase alphabetic character (A-Z) used for validation and error detection. This is the last digit of your PAN and helps verify the authenticity of the PAN number.
Character 4: Entity Type (CRITICAL)
A single uppercase alphabetic character (A-Z) that identifies the entity type. This position in the PAN is extremely important as it determines who the PAN holder is (Individual, Company, Trust, etc.). This is position 4 in the overall PAN.
What This Tool Can & Cannot Do
It's important to understand what this tool can and cannot do:
- ✓Check PAN format correctness - Verify it follows the official 10-character pattern
- ✓Identify entity type - Tell you if it's for Individual, Company, Firm, Trust, etc.
- ✓Detect invalid characters - Find typos, wrong letters, or wrong positions
- ✓Verify official structure - Ensure it matches CBDT (Central Board of Direct Taxes) guidelines
- ✓Instant pre-checking - Before you submit to banks, government, or any official body
- ✗Verify PAN ownership - We can't tell if YOU are the real owner of a PAN
- ✗Check government database - We don't connect to IT Department or RTO databases
- ✗Validate name or DOB - We can't verify if the name or birth date in the PAN is correct
- ✗Detect cleverly faked PANs - A well-formatted fake PAN will appear valid here
- ✗Perform official verification - This tool is for pre-checking only, not official verification
💡 Bottom Line:
This tool helps catch formatting mistakes before you submit your PAN to banks, government forms, or employers. It is not an official government verification tool. For official verification, contact the Income Tax Department directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
This PAN validator is completely private and secure. All validation happens in your browser with no server communication. Your PAN number is never stored, logged, or shared with anyone. No login required. No data tracking. Your financial information stays with you.