Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN) is essential for businesses and individuals responsible for deducting or collecting tax at source (TDS/TCS). Losing a TAN or having it cancelled can disrupt tax compliance and lead to penalties. This guide explains how to retrieve a lost TAN and reactivate a cancelled TAN efficiently.

Retrieving a Lost TAN

Losing a TAN can create unnecessary stress, especially during tax filing periods. However, the Income Tax Department provides a straightforward process for retrieving a lost TAN.

Step 1: Search for the TAN Using the Income Tax Portal

The Income Tax Department’s website maintains a database of all registered TANs. To find your lost TAN:

• Visit the TIN-NSDL website.
• Navigate to the “Know Your TAN” section.
• Enter your business name, PAN, and registered details.
• The system will display the TAN associated with the provided details.

Step 2: Retrieve TAN from Past Records

If you have filed TDS returns before, you can check:

• Previous tax filing documents (Form 26AS, TDS certificates).
• Bank statements reflecting tax deductions and TAN usage.
• Business registration certificates where TAN might be recorded.

Step 3: Contact the Income Tax Department

If you cannot retrieve your TAN online, you can:

• Call the Income Tax helpline with your business credentials.
• Visit the nearest Tax Office and request TAN details in writing.

Step 4: Apply for a Duplicate TAN Allotment Letter

In case official documentation is required, you can request a duplicate TAN allotment letter by submitting an application to NSDL or UTIITSL.

Reactivating a Cancelled TAN

A TAN can be cancelled due to non-compliance, incorrect information, or voluntary surrender. Reactivating a cancelled TAN involves a structured process.

Step 1: Identify the Reason for TAN Cancellation

Common reasons for TAN cancellation include:

• Non-filing of TDS Returns: If TDS filings were skipped for an extended period.
• Duplicate TAN Issuance: If multiple TANs were mistakenly obtained.
• Business Closure or Change in Structure: If the business underwent restructuring.

Step 2: Check the TAN Status Online

To confirm whether your TAN is inactive or cancelled, follow these steps:

• Visit the NSDL website.
• Click on TAN Status Inquiry.
• Enter your TAN number and business details to check the status.

Step 3: File a Re-Activation Request

If your TAN was involuntarily cancelled, you must request reactivation by:

• Writing a letter to the Jurisdictional Assessing Officer (AO).
• Mentioning TAN details, reason for cancellation, and justification for reactivation.
• Submitting any supporting business documents.

Step 4: Respond to Any Notices from the Tax Department

If your TAN was cancelled due to non-compliance, the Income Tax Department might require a proper explanation before restoring it. Ensure you:

• Provide a compliance report detailing past tax deductions and payments.
• Submit pending TDS returns, if applicable.
• Pay any applicable penalties or late fees.

Step 5: Apply for a New TAN If Reactivation Fails

If the TAN reactivation request is rejected, businesses may need to apply for a new TAN to continue tax compliance. However, old TAN records must be closed properly to avoid duplicate registration issues.

How ASK ASSOCIATES Helps in Retrieving and Reactivating TAN

ASK ASSOCIATES specializes in tax compliance and business registration services. Our team simplifies the process of retrieving lost TANs and reactivating cancelled ones.

✅ Quick TAN Retrieval – We conduct online searches, document assessments, and direct inquiries to retrieve lost TANs efficiently.
✅ End-to-End TAN Reactivation Assistance – We handle jurisdictional officer communications, compliance documentation, and appeal processes for smooth reactivation.
✅ Penalty and Non-Compliance Resolution – If TAN cancellation occurred due to non-compliance, we assist in clearing pending dues, filing overdue returns, and obtaining clearance.
✅ New TAN Registration Support – If TAN reactivation is not feasible, we facilitate seamless new TAN application with minimal delays.

By partnering with ASK ASSOCIATES, businesses can ensure uninterrupted tax operations and avoid legal hurdles. Contact us today for expert TAN retrieval and reactivation services.