AO Codes for PAN - Types, Components, and How to Find

How Does The AO Code For PAN Card Work?

The AO code helps the income tax department in evaluating the taxpayer and what tax laws apply to that particular person. For instance, if the taxpayer is an Indian resident individual, there will be one set of rules to pay the taxes. On the other hand, if it is an organization, then the tax slabs and rules may be different. AO codes may vary according to the profession as well. For example, if the individual is serving in the army or air force, the AO code will be different. Thus, the right AO code is important to ensure that individuals and companies are taxed according to the appropriate rules.

Components of AO Code in PAN

The AO code consists of four components. They are as follows:

1. Area Code: This shows the region of jurisdiction and is represented by 3 letters.

2. Range Code: Depending on the actual address of the PAN card holder, they are assigned a range type which indicates the ward or circle that they live in.

3. AO Type: This shows the category of the applicant. It can be an organization, individual, defence personnel, or non-resident.

4. AO Number: It is a unique number assigned to the assessing officer.

Types of AO Codes

There are 4 main types of AO codes that are used to identify the organization or the individual.

• International Taxation - These AO codes are for people and businesses that are not based in India but want to apply for a PAN card.
• Non-international Taxation (Mumbai) - These AO codes are for people and businesses who are living in or are registered in Mumbai.
• Non-International Taxation (Outside Mumbai) - This is applicable to individuals or businesses based in India but located in other states except Mumbai.
• Defence Personnel - This is for individuals who are members of the Indian Army or Air Force

How is The AO Code Decided for PAN Card?

The AO code is determined based on your address and what kind of taxpayer you are. Taxpayers are divided into two types - Individuals and non-individuals.

• If you are a salaried individual or if your income source stems from a combination of salary and business earnings, then your AO code will be designated based on your official address.
• If you are an individual with sources of income apart from your salary, then the AO code will be given according to your home address.
• In all the following scenarios, your office address will decide your AO code
• Hindu Undivided Family (HUF)
• Company, Partnership Firm
• LLP (Limited Liability Partnership)
• Association of Persons
• Body of Individuals
• Trust
• Local Authority
• Government Body
• Artificial Juridical Person

How To Determine AO Code For Your PAN Online?

The following are three ways in which you can find your AO code for PAN online.

1. To Find the AO code through the National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL) website.

Step 1: Visit the PAN portal of NSDL to search for the AO code.

Step 2: Choose your residence city

Step 3: Post clicking residence city, a list of AO codes present in your city will be displayed in the portal.

Step 4: Choose the preferred AO code based on the details specified.

Step 5: Finally, click on the ‘Submit’ button.

2. How to Locate the AO Code on the UTIITSL Website

Step 1: Visit the UTIITSL website

Step 2: Click on ‘Search for AO code Details’ under ‘PAN Card Services’

Step 3: Select the appropriate AO code type and then click on ‘View Details’.

Step 4: Next, select the city name by choosing the appropriate alphabet

Step 5: Choose from the list of AO codes and other information provided.

3. Through The Income Tax Portal

Step 1: Visit the Income tax portal.

Step 2: On ‘Profile settings’, choose the ‘My Profile’ option.

Step 3: Click on ‘PAN Details’.

Step 4: You can view the complete details including Area code, range code, AO number, jurisdiction, and AO type.

What is the Jurisdictional AO?

The jurisdiction of the AO is the geographical area for which the AO has his rights and duties. The assessee will either be covered under a range or a circle based on the income.

Why is It Important To Know Your PAN Jurisdiction?

It is essential to know your PAN jurisdiction since it will give you complete information on your commissioner’s charge, joint commissioner’s range, chief commissioner’s area, and assessing officer’s designation and location. You can also easily modify or relocate your permanent address and verify the status of your PAN card.

How To Determine the Jurisdictional AO?

Here are the steps to find the jurisdictional AO

Step 1: Go to the PAN portal of the income tax department

Step 2: Enter your registered mobile number and PAN number.

Step 3: Click on ‘Continue’

Step 4: A One Time Password (OTP) will be sent to your mobile phone.

Step 5: Input the OTP and click the ‘Validate’ button.

Step 6: You will be able to see the details of the Jurisdictional AO on the screen.

How to Migrate The PAN Card AO Code?

Here are the steps to migrate the PAN card AO code

Step 1: Search your AO code in your area jurisdiction

Step 2: Find your jurisdiction’s AO code by going to the Income tax department’s website.

Step 3: Click on the option ‘Field Offices’

Step 4: Submit an application to shift your AO code.

Step 5: Post submitting your request, the source AO office will give approval.

Step 6: Go to the section - ‘Know your jurisdiction AO’ on the Income Tax Department website to learn about the jurisdiction’s current status.

What Are The AO Codes for Top Cities?

FAQs on AO Codes For PAN: