You’ve spent time gathering your documents, carefully filled out every column of the online form, and paid the processing fee. You’re waiting for that plastic card to arrive in the mail, but instead, you get a notification or check your status only to see those dreaded words: "Application Rejected."
Naturally, the first question that pops into your head (after a bit of frustration) is: "What happens to the money I paid?"
Losing your hard-earned money over a clerical error feels unfair.
The good news?
You aren't necessarily out of luck.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through PAN card fees, common rejection reasons, and steps to reapply successfully.
Why Was My PAN Card Application Rejected Anyway?
It’s important to understand why the tax authorities might have said "NO" for PAN Card Application, before we dive into the "how-to" of refunds. Knowing the cause helps you decide if you should ask for a refund or simply fix the mistake.
The Name Game
This is the most common culprit while applying for PAN Card. If the name on your PAN application doesn’t exactly match the name on your Aadhaar card or birth certificate, the system flags it. Even a small spelling mistake or a missing middle name can lead to a PAN Card Application rejection.
Blurred or Incorrect Documents
If you uploaded a digital copy of your ID that looks like it was taken in a dark room, the verifying officer can't do their job. Similarly, using a document that isn't on the "Approved List" is a quick way to get rejected.
Signature Mishaps
Your signature must be clear and stay within the designated box. If it’s cut off or if you used a thumbprint without proper notarization/attestation, the PAN Application won't move forward.
Duplicate Applications
Already have a PAN? If the system detects you are trying to apply for a second one, they will reject the new PAN Application immediately. Holding two PAN cards is actually illegal and can lead to a hefty fine!
The Big Question: Is the PAN Application Fee Refundable?
Here is the honest truth: The PAN application fee is generally non-refundable if the rejection is due to your mistake.
Official portals like Protean eGov Technologies treat the fee as a "processing charge." Once their team starts looking at your documents, the service is considered "rendered." However, there are three specific scenarios where you have a very strong case for a refund:
- Technical Glitches: You paid the fee, the money left your bank, but the website crashed and didn't generate an acknowledgement receipt.
- Double Payment: You accidentally paid twice for the same application because the first session timed out.
- Wrong Category: You accidentally paid for a 'Foreign Citizen' PAN (₹1,000+) instead of an 'Indian Citizen' PAN (₹107 incl. GST)
Step-by-Step: How to Claim Your Refund
If you fall into one of the "refundable" categories mentioned above, don't just wait for the money to appear. You need to be proactive.
Gather Your Evidence
Before contacting support, have these details ready:
- Transaction ID (from your bank statement or SMS).
- Date and Time of the transaction.
- The Bank Account/Card details used for payment.
- Acknowledgement Number (if generated).
- Screenshot of the error message or rejection status.
Step 2: Contact the Customer Care Helpdesk
Most refund issues are handled through the specific service provider like Protean eGov Technologies via Phone/Email (tininfo@proteantech.com).
Step 3: Write a Formal Refund Request
If you are emailing them, keep it simple. Use a subject line like: "Refund Request: Double Payment for PAN Application [Transaction ID]". Explain clearly that the application was not processed or that a technical error occurred.
Step 4: The Waiting Period
Once a refund is initiated, it usually takes 7 to 15 working days to reflect in your original payment mode (credit card, UPI, or bank account).
What to Do If Your Refund is Denied?
If your application was rejected because you sent the wrong documents, the authorities likely won't give the money back. But don't worry—you haven't lost everything.
Instead of a refund, you must usually reapply with correct documents.
Most rejection notices come with a "Discrepancy Letter."
Check status on the portal using your acknowledgement number.
Submit a new application with correct documents via the portal, or email corrections as instructed in the discrepancy letter.
Re-apply promptly with correct details (typically within 15-30 days for processing), paying the standard fee again.
Pro-Tips to Avoid Rejection in the Future
The best way to handle a refund is to never need one in the first place! Follow these rules for a smooth PAN Application process:
- Match your Aadhaar: 90% of successful applications use the "e-KYC" method. Ensure your name, date of birth, and gender on the PAN form match your Aadhaar data perfectly.
- Check the Photo Quality: If you aren't using the Aadhaar photo, ensure your uploaded photo is 3.5cm x 2.5cm and has a plain white background.
- Use the "Save Draft" Feature: Don't rush. Save your application and review every field twice before hitting the payment button.
- Check Your Internet: Ensure you have a stable connection when making the payment to avoid "Double Deductions."
Wrapping Up
Dealing with government documentation can feel like a maze, but understanding the rules of the PAN Card fees makes it much easier to navigate. While a refund isn't guaranteed for user errors, technical glitches and double payments are definitely recoverable.
The next time you apply, take a deep breath, double-check your Aadhaar details, and ensure your documents are crystal clear.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How much is the current PAN card fee for Indian citizens?
As of 2026, the standard fee for a physical PAN card (sent to an Indian address) is approximately ₹107, while an e-PAN (digital only) costs around ₹72.
Q2: Can I get a refund if I change my mind after paying?
No. Once the payment is successful and the processing begins, you cannot cancel the application for a "change of mind" refund.
Q3: I paid twice by mistake. Will I get the money back automatically?
Sometimes the system detects a duplicate payment and reverses it automatically within 10 days. However, it is always safer to send an email to the service provider with both transaction IDs to ensure it is processed.
Q4: How long does it take for a rejected application to be updated?
Once you submit the corrected documents for a rejected PAN Card, it typically takes 7 to 10 business days for the status to update to "In Progress" or "Dispatched."
Q5: My application was rejected due to a "Data Mismatch." Do I have to pay again?
If you are correcting the data on the same application link within the allowed time, you usually do not have to pay again. If you let the application expire and start a brand new one, you will have to pay the fee again.
