PAN–Aadhaar Link Failed Due to Name Mismatch? How to Fix It Online
Many people panic when they see the message “PAN–Aadhaar linking failed due to name mismatch”. This usually happens when you try to link PAN with Aadhaar online and the system refuses to accept your details.
The good news is — this problem is very common and in most cases, it can be fixed without visiting any office. This guide explains why the error happens and how you can correct it safely.
If you recently updated your Aadhaar mobile number, you may also want to check our guide on Aadhaar mobile number not linked – how to update it .
Why PAN–Aadhaar Linking Fails Due to Name Mismatch
The PAN–Aadhaar linking system compares your details from two different databases. If even one detail does not match exactly, the linking request fails.
The most common reasons are:
- Spelling difference in your name
- Initials used in one document but not the other
- Date of birth mismatch
- Gender mismatch
Even small differences like “Ravi Kumar” vs “Ravi K.” can cause failure.
Details That Must Match Exactly for PAN–Aadhaar Linking
| Detail | In Aadhaar | In PAN | Must Match? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Name | As printed on Aadhaar | As printed on PAN | Yes (including initials & spelling) |
| Date of Birth | DD/MM/YYYY format | DD/MM/YYYY format | Yes (must be identical) |
| Gender | Male / Female / Transgender | Male / Female / Transgender | Yes |
How to Check Which Detail Is Causing the Problem
Before making any changes, first check:
- Your name, date of birth, and gender on Aadhaar
- Your name, date of birth, and gender on PAN
You can verify Aadhaar details on the official UIDAI portal and PAN details on the Income Tax e-filing website.
If you recently received an email from the Income Tax Department, you may also want to read our guide on Income Tax Intimation u/s 143(1) to understand why accurate details are important.
How to Fix PAN–Aadhaar Name Mismatch Online
There are two possible ways to fix this issue:
Option 1: Correct Aadhaar Details
- Update your name or date of birth in Aadhaar
- Wait for the update to be approved
- Try PAN–Aadhaar linking again
Option 2: Correct PAN Details
- Apply for PAN correction online
- Update your name, date of birth, or gender
- After correction, try linking again
Choose the option based on which document has the wrong information.
Common Questions People Ask
Q: Can I link PAN and Aadhaar if my name has initials?
Yes, but both documents must show the name in the same format.
Q: How long does correction take?
Aadhaar updates usually take a few days. PAN corrections may take 7–15 days.
Q: Will I get fined if linking fails?
No penalty is applied for failed attempts. Penalty applies only if PAN is not linked within the deadline.
Important Things to Remember
- Do not submit repeated linking requests without fixing the mismatch
- Always use official government portals only
- Beware of agents asking for high fees
- Keep screenshots of successful updates
Safety Tip: Never share your OTP with anyone claiming to help with PAN–Aadhaar linking. Use only official websites.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with the Income Tax Department, UIDAI, or any government authority. For official confirmation, always refer to the respective government portals.
