Quick overview — why authentication fails
PAN–Aadhaar linking uses automated demographic checks. The most common causes of failure are mismatches in name, date of birth, or gender, or one of the IDs already being linked elsewhere. If a broker shows "authentication failed" during KYC or e-Sign, it usually means the data sent didn’t match official records.
Step 1 — Identify the exact error
1. Note the Groww error message and check your profile → KYC → PAN/Aadhaar section for any details.
2. Try linking via the Income Tax Aadhaar link page to see the specific server response (reveals mismatch type).
Step 2 — If the mismatch is Name
Minor differences (initials, punctuation, spacing) can block linking. UIDAI allows OTP fallback for small mismatches—only if other fields match. Large differences require updating PAN or Aadhaar so names match exactly.
Step 3 — If the mismatch is Date of Birth or Gender
DOB/gender must match exactly. Update the incorrect record, wait for it to reflect (often a few days), then retry linking.
Step 4 — If an ID is already linked or blocked
If Aadhaar is linked to a different PAN (or vice versa), you’ll need to resolve conflicts via the PAN service provider or Income Tax helpdesk.
Step 5 — Retry safely on Groww
- Fix mismatches on the correct portal (UIDAI for Aadhaar, NSDL/UTIITSL for PAN).
- Wait 24–72 hours for databases to sync.
- Retry linking in Groww’s KYC section; if it fails, contact Groww support with screenshots.
Practical tips & timelines
• Minor updates reflect in 24–72 hours; major corrections take longer. • If online linking fails repeatedly, try biometric or in-person verification at a PAN Service Provider center.


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