PAN Correction Rejected — Causes, Fixes & What to Do Next

Quick Answer

PAN correction requests get rejected mainly due to insufficient proof documents (45%), signature mismatch (25%), or data mismatch with existing database without supporting proof (20%). To fix: Check rejection email for reason code. If rejected for "name mismatch", provide Gazette notification or marriage certificate. If "signature mismatch", submit fresh application with clear signature and identity proof. You must reapply with new acknowledgement number; fee is usually refunded or adjusted if applied within 30 days.

Why Corrections Get Rejected

Insufficient Proof for Change (45%)

The Issue: You requested a change (e.g., name change) but provided only standard ID proof instead of "change proof".

Name Change: Needs Gazette notification or marriage certificate, not just Aadhaar.
DOB Change: Needs Birth Certificate or high-authority document if difference is >3 years.
Father's Name Change: Needs specific proof showing father's name correctly (e.g., driving license, passport).

Signature Mismatch (25%)

The Issue: Your current signature differs significantly from the one on your original PAN application years ago.

Reason: Security measure to prevent unauthorized changes.
Fix: Submit an Affidavit stating both signatures belong to you, or get the form attested by a Gazetted Officer/Bank Manager.

"No Record Found" or Data Mismatch (20%)

The Issue: The details you provided as "existing details" don't match the Income Tax database.

Common Error: Entering incorrect existing PAN number.
Common Error: Entering "new" name in the "existing name" field. You must provide existing database details correctly to identify the record.

Step-by-Step Fix

How to Re-Apply Successfully

Analyze the Rejection Letter

Don't guess. Read the specific rejection code in the email. Common codes involve "Proof not enclosed" or "Signature mismatch".

Gather Stronger Documents

If rejected for name change: Get a Gazette Notification. This is the ultimate proof that overrides all other rejections. For DOB: Get a Municipal Birth Certificate.

See acceptable documents list →

Fill Form Correctly

Use Form 49A (Change/Correction). Tick ONLY the box next to the field you want to update (e.g., Name). Do not tick boxes for fields that don't need changing, but fill them in to match existing records.

Physical Submission (Recommended for Complex Cases)

If online application failed twice, send physical documents to NSDL/UTIITSL. Include a cover letter explaining the change and referencing the previous rejection. Physical verification is often more thorough and lenient than automated checks.

FAQs

Can I get a refund for rejected correction?

Yes, usually. If rejected, the fee is often held for a short period allowing you to re-submit with the same token, or it's refunded. If you start a fresh application after 30 days, you need to pay again. Check the refund policy of the specific portal (NSDL/UTI) you used.

How do I fix "Signature Mismatch"?

You need to prove that you are the same person. Visit a Notary or Gazetted Officer. Get them to attest your photo and signature on an Annexure-A form (available on NSDL website). Submit this physical form along with your application.