Now, Aadhaar mandatory for filing I-T returns, applying PAN

New Delhi: The government has proposed to make Aadhaar card mandatory for filing income tax return and also for applying for PAN from July 1, 2017.

Sources in the government said the work on both fronts was moving steadily and relevant amendments to the Income Tax Act, 1961, in this Budget are under ‘active discussion’ to ensure mandatory linkage of tax returns to Aadhaar numbers.

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has introduced a new column in the ITRs for 2015-16 where an e-filer can provide his Aadhaar number which will have to be authenticated on the official website of the department via a One Time Password (OTP).