PAN Vs PRAN: The Two Key Numbers That Shape Your Finances & Retirement

PAN Vs PRAN: The Two Key Numbers That Shape Your Finances & Retirement

PAN is used for taxation and financial transactions, while PRAN manages retirement savings under NPS. PAN is permanent, whereas PRAN is transferable. Issued by different authorities, both serve distinct yet crucial financial purposes in India.

Manoj YadavUpdated: Thursday, March 13, 2025, 04:04 PM IST
article-image

In the world of financial planning, two critical identification numbers play a crucial role: PAN (Permanent Account Number) and PRAN (Permanent Retirement Account Number). While both serve as unique identifiers, they cater to entirely different financial needs. Let’s break down their distinctions and understand how each one impacts your financial journey.

Purpose: Taxation vs. Retirement Security

- PAN is primarily used for income tax-related activities, including tax filing, financial transactions, and banking.

- PRAN is designed exclusively for tracking contributions and withdrawals in the National Pension System (NPS) for retirement planning.

Who Issues Them?

- PAN is issued by the Income Tax Department of India under the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT).

- PRAN is issued by the National Pension System Trust (NPST) and regulated by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).

Who Needs It?

- PAN is essential for all Indian citizens, including foreign nationals conducting financial transactions in India.

- PRAN is exclusively for individuals enrolled in NPS, making it relevant mainly for retirement-focused investors.

How Do They Look?

- PAN consists of a 10-character alphanumeric code (e.g., AAAAA9999A).

- PRAN is a 12-digit numeric code unique to NPS subscribers.

How Are They Used?

- PAN is required for various financial and non-financial transactions, including opening bank accounts, buying property, and even getting a mobile connection.

- PRAN is strictly for managing pension contributions and withdrawals under NPS.

Can They Be Transferred?

- PAN is permanent and remains unchanged for life.

- PRAN is managed by the PFRDA, focusing on pension fund administration.

RECENT STORIES

Amazon India, Flipkart Must Remove Products Infringing Reliance, Jio Trademarks: Delhi High Court

Amazon India, Flipkart Must Remove Products Infringing Reliance, Jio Trademarks: Delhi High Court

India, EU To Hold Next Round Of Free Trade Agreement Talks In September

India, EU To Hold Next Round Of Free Trade Agreement Talks In September

ICICI Prudential Life Q1 FY26 Profit Falls 21.8% QoQ, Premium Income Drops 48%

ICICI Prudential Life Q1 FY26 Profit Falls 21.8% QoQ, Premium Income Drops 48%

Gold Dips By ₹200 To ₹99,370 Per 10g, Silver Drops Sharply By ₹3,000 To Rs 1.12 Lakh/Kg

Gold Dips By ₹200 To ₹99,370 Per 10g, Silver Drops Sharply By ₹3,000 To Rs 1.12 Lakh/Kg

Exports Steady At USD 35.14 Bn In June, Trade Deficit Narrows To 4-Month Low Of USD 18.78 Bn

Exports Steady At USD 35.14 Bn In June, Trade Deficit Narrows To 4-Month Low Of USD 18.78 Bn