At first glance, Clause 3 of Form 3CD just asks for the Permanent Account Number (PAN) of the assessee. Simple, right?
But here's what many overlook: the PAN must be in sync with the name reported under Clause 1, and in case of branch audits, each branch's details should be carefully reported.
Let’s break it down with edge cases and real-world complications included.
๐ What Does Clause 3 Ask For?
Clause 3 requires:
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The Permanent Account Number (PAN) of the assessee
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If the audit is of a branch, the name of the assessee (main entity) along with branch details must be clearly mentioned
๐ Example:
If XYZ Pvt Ltd, PAN: AAACX1234A, has a branch audit for its Bangalore office:
➡️ Clause 3 should mention:
PAN: AAACX1234A (XYZ Pvt Ltd – Bangalore Branch)
๐งฉ Common Real-World Problems
❗ Issue 1: Name Mismatch Between PAN and Statutory Records
This happens when:
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Name has changed but PAN record not updated
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Typo/mismatch between PAN and MCA, GST, etc.
⚠️ Problem: IT system may flag mismatch
✅ Solution:
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Always verify name via PAN database
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If update is pending, mention it in audit notes
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Keep proof of name change filing (e.g., Form INC-24)
❗ Issue 2: Branch Audits Without Proper Segregation
Sometimes, auditors report just the PAN and forget to specify which branch is being audited.
✅ Best Practice:
Mention head office name + branch location in Clause 3 for clarity.
๐ Example:
“PAN: AAACX1234A (XYZ Pvt Ltd – Chennai Branch)”
❗ Issue 3: Proprietorship Confusion
In proprietorships, the PAN is always in the name of the individual, not the trade name.
✅ Clause 3 should reflect:
PAN of the proprietor with optional mention of business name.
๐ Example:
PAN: AGHPS5678A (Ravi Sharma carrying on business as Ravi Electronics)
✅ Summary Table
| Scenario | What to Report in Clause 3 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| No changes | PAN with legal name | Simple case |
| Name changed during FY | PAN with current name | Note old name & date |
| Name changed after FY | PAN with new name | Mention date of change |
| Branch audit | PAN + branch info | Add city/location |
| PAN name mismatch | Report PAN, add audit note | PAN update proof required |
| Proprietorship | Individual’s PAN | May add business name in brackets |
๐งพ Final Tips
✔️ Always validate PAN details through the Income Tax portal
✔️ Make sure Clause 1 name and PAN name align
✔️ For branch audits, specify branch location clearly
✔️ For name changes, always note the effective date and status of PAN update
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