TRACES Password Guide 2025: Form 16, 16A, Conso File & More | Complete Format

Contents

1. Introduction: Understanding TRACES Password Formats
2. Overview of TRACES Password Requirements for FY 2024-25
3. Form 16 and Form 16A Password Format
   1. Form 16 Password for Employees
   2. Form 16A Password for Deductees
4. Conso File Password Format
   1. How to Download Conso File
   2. Step-by-Step Password Guide
   3. Common Issues and Solutions
5. Justification Report Password Format
   1. Password Structure Explained
   2. Converting JR to Excel Format
6. Form 27D and Transaction Based Report Password
7. Password Format Comparison Table
8. Who Needs These Passwords?
9. Common Password Errors and Troubleshooting
10. You may also like
11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
12. Conclusion

Introduction: Understanding TRACES Password Formats

If you've ever tried to open a TDS certificate, Conso file, or Justification Report downloaded from the TRACES portal and found yourself stuck at the password screen, you're not alone. The TRACES (TDS Reconciliation Analysis and Correction Enabling System) portal uses specific password formats to protect sensitive tax information, and knowing the right format can save you hours of frustration.

The password for TRACES documents is not randomly generated – it follows specific formats based on your TAN, PAN, date of birth, or request number. Understanding these formats is crucial for accessing your TDS documents without delay.

Whether you're an employee trying to open Form 16, a deductor accessing the Conso file for corrections, or a tax professional downloading Justification Reports, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every password format you need to know in 2025. We'll cover Form 16, Form 16A, Form 27D, Transaction Based Reports, Conso files, and Justification Reports with clear examples and troubleshooting tips.

Click to reveal a quick tip!

Always keep your TAN, PAN, date of birth, and request numbers handy when downloading files from TRACES. Most password errors occur due to incorrect capitalization or missing underscores in the password format.

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Overview of TRACES Password Requirements for FY 2024-25

For the Financial Year 2024-25 (Assessment Year 2025-26), TRACES continues to use standardized password formats to secure all TDS-related documents. The Income Tax Department maintains these password protocols to ensure data security while providing authorized access to taxpayers, deductors, and collectors.

Note: All TRACES files downloaded from the portal are in ZIP format and require password extraction before they can be viewed or converted to readable formats like PDF or Excel.

Important: Correction statements for FY 2018-19 (Q4), FY 2019-20 to 2022-23 (all quarters) and FY 2023-24 (Q1 to Q3) will only be accepted until March 31, 2026. These are time-barred by limitation and will not be accepted from April 1, 2026 onwards.

The password formats vary depending on the type of document you're trying to access. Here's what makes each format unique:

Document Type	Primary Password Component	Secondary Component	Case Sensitivity
Form 16 (Salary)	PAN (First 5 characters)	Date of Birth (DDMMYYYY)	UPPERCASE
Form 16A (Non-Salary)	PAN (First 5 characters)	Date of Birth (DDMMYYYY)	UPPERCASE
Conso File	TAN	Request Number	UPPERCASE with underscore
Justification Report	TAN	Form Type, Quarter, FY	UPPERCASE with underscores
Form 27D & TBR	TAN	None	UPPERCASE

Understanding these password formats is essential for seamless access to your TDS documentation. In the following sections, we'll break down each password type with detailed examples and practical scenarios.

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Form 16 and Form 16A Password Format

Form 16 and Form 16A are the most commonly accessed TDS certificates, and their password formats are similar but serve different purposes. Let's understand each in detail.

Form 16 Password for Employees

Form 16 is a TDS certificate issued by employers to salaried employees, containing salary details and tax deducted at source. This certificate is crucial for filing Income Tax Returns and is issued annually by June 15th after the financial year ends.

Password Format: First 5 characters of PAN in UPPERCASE + Date of Birth in DDMMYYYY format

1. Step 1: Identify the first 5 characters of your PAN. If your PAN is ABCDE1234F, the first 5 characters are ABCDE.
2. Step 2: Note your date of birth in DDMMYYYY format. For example, if you were born on March 15, 1990, write it as 15031990.
3. Step 3: Combine both parts without any space or special characters. Example: ABCDE15031990
4. Step 4: Ensure all alphabets are in UPPERCASE. Some employers may use lowercase, so try both if one doesn't work.

Example: If your PAN is DRFIX1246D and date of birth is December 6, 1996, your Form 16 password would be DRFIX06121996

Form 16A Password for Deductees

Form 16A is issued for TDS deducted on income other than salary, such as interest, rent, professional fees, commission, and other payments. It is issued quarterly and can be downloaded from the TRACES portal.

Password Format: Identical to Form 16 – First 5 characters of PAN in UPPERCASE + Date of Birth in DDMMYYYY format

Important Difference: While the password format is the same, Form 16 covers only salary income (filed through Form 24Q), whereas Form 16A covers all other income types (filed through Form 26Q and 27Q).

1. Step 1: Locate your PAN number from your PAN card or any official tax document.
2. Step 2: Extract the first 5 characters (always alphabets in a valid PAN).
3. Step 3: Convert your date of birth to 8-digit format: DD (2 digits) + MM (2 digits) + YYYY (4 digits).
4. Step 4: Concatenate the PAN prefix with the date without any separator.

Example: If your PAN is BPTRA5997L and date of birth is November 11, 2000, your Form 16A password would be BPTRA11112000

Due Dates for Form 16A Issuance:

• Q1 (April-June): By August 15
• Q2 (July-September): By November 15
• Q3 (October-December): By February 15
• Q4 (January-March): By June 15

Conso File Password Format

The Conso (Consolidated) File is one of the most important documents for TDS deductors when filing correction statements or generating TDS certificates. It contains consolidated data of all TDS returns filed for a specific financial year, quarter, and form type, including both original and correction statements.

The Conso file is mandatory for filing TDS corrections, requesting Form 16/16A, and performing any correction-related activities on TRACES.

How to Download Conso File

Before we discuss the password, let's understand how to download the Conso file from TRACES:

1. Step 1: Login to TRACES portal at www.tdscpc.gov.in using your User ID, Password, and TAN.
2. Step 2: Navigate to Statements/Payments menu and select "Request for Conso file".
3. Step 3: Select the Financial Year, Quarter, and Form Type (24Q/26Q/27Q/27EQ) for which you need the file.
4. Step 4: Complete KYC validation by entering Token Number, Challan details, and PAN-Amount combinations.
5. Step 5: After successful validation, note the Request Number displayed on screen.
6. Step 6: Wait 24-48 hours for the file to be processed and become available for download.
7. Step 7: Go to Downloads → Requested Downloads and download the file when status shows "Available".

Step-by-Step Password Guide

Password Format: TAN in UPPERCASE + Underscore (_) + Request Number

Critical: The underscore (_) between TAN and Request Number is mandatory. Many users forget this separator, leading to password errors.

1. Step 1: Note your complete TAN (10 characters including letters and numbers).
2. Step 2: Find the Request Number from the TRACES downloads section or from the confirmation screen when you requested the file.
3. Step 3: Write TAN in UPPERCASE, add underscore, then add Request Number.
4. Step 4: Ensure there are no spaces before or after the underscore.

Example 1: If your TAN is ABCD12345E and Request Number is 67890, the password is ABCD12345E_67890

Example 2: If your TAN is LMNO45678P and Request Number is 987456, the password is LMNO45678P_987456

Example 3: If your TAN is HYDD12345A and Request Number is 6345690, the password is HYDD12345A_6345690

Common Issues and Solutions

Issue	Possible Cause	Solution
Password not working	Using old Request Number	Use the LATEST Request Number for the specific FY, Quarter, and Form Type
File not opening	TAN in lowercase	Ensure TAN is in UPPERCASE (all capital letters)
Invalid password error	Missing underscore	Check that underscore (_) is present between TAN and Request Number
Cannot find Request Number	Not noted during submission	Check Downloads → Requested Downloads → View All to find your Request Number
File shows "corrupt"	Incomplete download	Re-download the file; use Download Manager for large files

Important Points About Conso File:

• Conso file gets updated each time a correction is filed for the same FY, Quarter, and Form Type
• Cannot be downloaded if the return was filed manually (paper filing)
• Request can only be processed if statement status is "Statement Processed with Default" or "Statement Processed without Default"
• Valid only for returns filed electronically through TRACES or authorized intermediaries
• Different Request Numbers for different combinations of FY, Quarter, and Form Type

Justification Report Password Format

A Justification Report (JR) is a detailed document that contains information about errors and defaults identified by TRACES while processing your TDS/TCS return. This report is essential for understanding what corrections need to be made before filing a correction statement.

Password Structure Explained

Password Format: JR_ + TAN + _ + Form Type + _ + Quarter + _ + Financial Year

This is the most complex password format in TRACES, with multiple components separated by underscores. Let's break it down:

1. Component 1: JR (fixed prefix in UPPERCASE)
2. Component 2: Underscore (_)
3. Component 3: Your TAN in UPPERCASE (10 characters)
4. Component 4: Underscore (_)
5. Component 5: Form Type – 24Q, 26Q, 27Q, or 27EQ (UPPERCASE)
6. Component 6: Underscore (_)
7. Component 7: Quarter – Q1, Q2, Q3, or Q4 (UPPERCASE)
8. Component 8: Underscore (_)
9. Component 9: Financial Year in YYYY-YY format (e.g., 2024-25)

Example 1: For TAN AAAAA1235A, Form 24Q, Quarter 3, FY 2010-11, the password is JR_AAAAA1235A_24Q_Q3_2010-11

Example 2: For TAN HYDD12345A, Form 26Q, Quarter 2, FY 2024-25, the password is JR_HYDD12345A_26Q_Q2_2024-25

Example 3: For TAN BLRC12345C, Form 27Q, Quarter 4, FY 2023-24, the password is JR_BLRC12345C_27Q_Q4_2023-24

Special Note: For Justification Reports from FY 2007-08 to FY 2011-12, if the above format doesn't work, try using the Original Token Number (PRN) of the TDS return as the password instead.

Converting JR to Excel Format

The downloaded Justification Report is in text format (.txt). To make it readable and analyzable, you need to convert it to Excel format using the TRACES Justification Report Generation Utility.

1. Step 1: Download the TRACES Justification Report Generation Utility from Downloads → Requested Downloads → "Click here" button.
2. Step 2: Enter the verification code and download the utility ZIP file.
3. Step 3: Extract the utility ZIP file (password may be required).
4. Step 4: Open the Excel file from the extracted utility and click "Enable Content" to enable macros.
5. Step 5: Browse and select the Justification Report text file you downloaded earlier.
6. Step 6: Select the destination folder where you want to save the Excel output.
7. Step 7: Click on "Generate Report" button.
8. Step 8: The utility will convert the text file to a structured Excel spreadsheet with all defaults categorized.

What Information Does JR Contain?

• Challan-related errors (incorrect CIN, amount mismatch, date errors)
• Deductee-related errors (invalid PAN, wrong TDS amount, incorrect section codes)
• Late filing penalties and interest calculations
• Short deduction or short payment of TDS
• Mismatch between TDS deposited and TDS claimed in the return
• Transaction-level defaults with specific error codes

Form 27D and Transaction Based Report Password

Form 27D is the TCS (Tax Collected at Source) certificate issued by collectors to the persons from whom tax has been collected. Transaction Based Reports provide detailed transaction-level information for TDS/TCS filings.

Password Format: TAN in UPPERCASE (10 characters)

This is the simplest password format among all TRACES documents. The password is simply your TAN without any additional components.

1. Step 1: Note your complete TAN (Tax Collection Account Number for collectors).
2. Step 2: Ensure all characters are in UPPERCASE.
3. Step 3: Enter the TAN as the password – no underscores, no additional numbers.

Example 1: If your TAN is ABCD12345E, the password is simply ABCD12345E

Example 2: If your TAN is MUMB56789F, the password is simply MUMB56789F

How to Generate Form 27D PDF:

1. Step 1: Login to TRACES and go to Downloads → Form 27D.
2. Step 2: Select Bulk PAN download, choose Financial Year and Quarter, click Go.
3. Step 3: Download the Form 27D ZIP file(s).
4. Step 4: Download the Form 27D PDF Converter Utility from TRACES.
5. Step 5: Import the ZIP files into the utility.
6. Step 6: Enter password as TAN of collector (UPPERCASE).
7. Step 7: Choose destination folder and click Proceed.
8. Step 8: Form 27D certificates will be generated as individual PDFs.

Note: You can also affix Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) while generating Form 27D PDFs for enhanced security and authenticity.

Due Dates for Form 27D Issuance:

• Q1 (April-June): By July 30
• Q2 (July-September): By October 30
• Q3 (October-December): By January 30
• Q4 (January-March): By May 30

Password Format Comparison Table

Here's a comprehensive comparison of all TRACES password formats for quick reference:

Document	Password Format	Example	Case Sensitive?
Form 16 (ZIP File)	PAN (first 5 chars) + DOB (DDMMYYYY)	ABCDE06121990	Yes - UPPERCASE
Form 16A (ZIP File)	PAN (first 5 chars) + DOB (DDMMYYYY)	BPTRA11112000	Yes - UPPERCASE
Conso File	TAN_Request Number	ABCD12345E_67890	Yes - UPPERCASE
Justification Report	JR_TAN_FormType_Quarter_FY	JR_AAAAA1235A_24Q_Q3_2024-25	Yes - UPPERCASE
Form 27D	TAN	ABCD12345E	Yes - UPPERCASE
Transaction Based Report	TAN	MUMB56789F	Yes - UPPERCASE
TDS Intimation (Email)	TAN_Date of filing (DDMMYYYY)	AAAAA1235A_16122018	Yes - UPPERCASE

Pro Tip: Save these password formats in a secure document for quick reference during TDS filing seasons. Many professionals create templates with their TAN and PAN pre-filled to generate passwords instantly.

Who Needs These Passwords?

Understanding which stakeholders need which password formats is crucial for efficient TDS management.

Employees and Salary Earners

Required Passwords: Form 16 password (PAN + DOB)

Use Case: Opening annual TDS certificates from employers for filing Income Tax Returns. This is needed once a year, typically between June and July when employers issue Form 16.

Freelancers and Professionals

Required Passwords: Form 16A password (PAN + DOB)

Use Case: Accessing quarterly TDS certificates for professional fees, commission, rent, and other non-salary income. Required four times a year when clients/deductors issue Form 16A.

TDS Deductors (Employers and Businesses)

Required Passwords: Form 16 ZIP (TAN), Form 16A ZIP (TAN), Conso File (TAN_Request Number), Justification Report (JR format)

Use Case: Filing TDS returns, generating certificates for employees/deductees, correcting errors, and downloading consolidated data. Required throughout the year for compliance.

TCS Collectors

Required Passwords: Form 27D (TAN), Transaction Based Report (TAN)

Use Case: Issuing TCS certificates to persons from whom tax has been collected, filing TCS returns (Form 27EQ), and maintaining compliance records.

Tax Professionals and Chartered Accountants

Required Passwords: All formats depending on client requirements

Use Case: Managing TDS/TCS compliance for multiple clients, filing corrections, reconciling tax credits, and ensuring timely certificate issuance.

Property Buyers and Sellers

Required Passwords: Form 16B (may vary by state)

Use Case: Accessing TDS certificates for property transactions where TDS has been deducted under Section 194-IA.

Landlords Receiving Rent

Required Passwords: Form 16C (similar to Form 16A format)

Use Case: Obtaining TDS certificates from tenants who deduct TDS on rent payments under Section 194-IB.

Common Password Errors and Troubleshooting

Even with the correct format, you might encounter password errors. Here are the most common issues and their solutions:

Issue 1: "Invalid Password" Error

Possible Causes:

• Using lowercase instead of UPPERCASE for TAN or PAN characters
• Including spaces before or after the password
• Wrong date format (MMDDYYYY instead of DDMMYYYY)
• Missing underscores in Conso file or JR password

Solutions:

1. Double-check capitalization – all letters should be UPPERCASE
2. Verify date format – day first (DD), then month (MM), then year (YYYY)
3. Count underscores – Conso file has 1, JR has 4
4. Try copy-pasting from a text editor to avoid hidden characters

Issue 2: File Shows as Corrupted

Possible Causes:

• Incomplete download due to internet interruption
• Browser compatibility issues
• Attempting to extract before full download

Solutions:

1. Re-download the file using Download Manager option for large files
2. Try downloading in a different browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)
3. Ensure stable internet connection during download
4. Check file size – if suspiciously small, download again

Issue 3: Wrong Request Number for Conso File

Possible Causes:

• Using Request Number from previous quarter
• Using Request Number from different Form Type
• Confusion between multiple concurrent requests

Solutions:

1. Go to Downloads → Requested Downloads → View All
2. Filter by FY, Quarter, and Form Type to find correct Request Number
3. Use the LATEST Request Number for the specific combination
4. Note: A new correction statement generates a new Conso file with new Request Number

Issue 4: Date of Birth Not Working

Possible Causes:

• Using MM-DD-YYYY format (common in US systems)
• Missing leading zeros for single-digit dates or months
• Wrong date of birth in PAN records

Solutions:

1. Always use DD-MM-YYYY format (Indian standard)
2. Add leading zero: March 5, 1990 = 05031990, not 531990
3. Verify DOB in PAN card or Form 26AS
4. If DOB was updated recently, use the OLD DOB that was registered during PAN issuance

Issue 5: Utility Not Converting Files

Possible Causes:

• Outdated utility version
• Macros disabled in Excel
• Incompatible Excel version

Solutions:

1. Download the latest utility from TRACES (versions get updated regularly)
2. Enable macros when opening utility Excel file
3. Use Microsoft Excel (not OpenOffice or Google Sheets) for utilities
4. Check if .NET Framework is installed on your system

Still Having Issues? Contact TRACES support at contactus@tdscpc.gov.in or raise an online grievance through "Request for Resolution" on the TRACES portal. For urgent matters, you can also contact the Assessing Officer of your jurisdiction.

Best Practices to Avoid Password Errors

1. Maintain a Password Reference Document: Create a secure document with your TAN, PAN, DOB, and recent Request Numbers for quick access.
2. Use a Text Editor: Type passwords in Notepad first to avoid auto-correct and formatting issues, then copy-paste into the password field.
3. Double-Check Before Downloading: Verify FY, Quarter, and Form Type selections to avoid downloading wrong files.
4. Keep Records of Request Numbers: Screenshot or note Request Numbers immediately after submission to avoid searching later.
5. Update Software Regularly: Keep Java, .NET Framework, and PDF readers updated for compatibility with TRACES utilities.
6. Verify PAN/TAN Details: Ensure PAN and TAN are correctly registered and active on the Income Tax portal.
7. Test With Sample Data: If unsure about password format, test with a small file first before bulk operations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on TRACES Passwords

What is the password for Form 16 downloaded from TRACES?

The password for Form 16 is the first 5 characters of your PAN in UPPERCASE followed by your date of birth in DDMMYYYY format. For example, if your PAN is ABCDE1234F and your date of birth is March 15, 1990, the password would be ABCDE15031990. Some employers may issue Form 16 with lowercase PAN characters, so try both uppercase and lowercase if one doesn't work.

How do I find the Request Number for Conso file password?

To find your Request Number: (1) Login to TRACES portal, (2) Go to Downloads → Requested Downloads, (3) Click on "View All", (4) Look for your Conso file request matching the Financial Year, Quarter, and Form Type, (5) The Request Number will be displayed in the list. You can also note the Request Number immediately after submitting the Conso file request – it appears on the confirmation screen.

Why is my Form 16A password not working even with correct PAN and DOB?

Common reasons include: (1) Using lowercase instead of UPPERCASE for PAN characters, (2) Wrong date format – must be DDMMYYYY (not MMDDYYYY), (3) Missing leading zero for single-digit dates (e.g., 05 not 5 for May), (4) Using updated DOB instead of original DOB registered with PAN, (5) Extra spaces before or after the password. Always verify your DOB from your PAN card or Form 26AS.

What is the difference between Form 16 and Form 16A password formats?

The password format is identical for both Form 16 and Form 16A – first 5 characters of PAN (UPPERCASE) + date of birth (DDMMYYYY). The difference lies in the purpose: Form 16 is for salary income TDS (filed by employers in Form 24Q), while Form 16A is for non-salary income TDS like rent, professional fees, interest, etc. (filed in Form 26Q/27Q). Both follow the same password structure for consistency.

How many underscores are required in Justification Report password?

The Justification Report password requires exactly 4 underscores. The format is: JR_TAN_FormType_Quarter_FinancialYear. For example: JR_AAAAA1235A_24Q_Q3_2024-25. Each underscore separates different components: (1) after JR prefix, (2) after TAN, (3) after Form Type, (4) after Quarter. Missing even one underscore will cause the password to fail.

Can I use the same Conso file Request Number for different quarters?

No, each combination of Financial Year, Quarter, and Form Type generates a unique Request Number. For example, if you request Conso file for FY 2024-25, Q2, Form 24Q, you'll get Request Number A. If you later request for FY 2024-25, Q3, Form 24Q, you'll get a different Request Number B. Always use the Request Number specific to the FY-Quarter-FormType combination you're working with.

What should I do if Form 27D password (TAN) is not working?

If your TAN is not working as password: (1) Ensure all 10 characters are in UPPERCASE, (2) Verify you're using the correct TAN – it should be the Tax Collection Account Number (for collectors), not Tax Deduction Account Number, (3) Check if there are any spaces before or after the TAN, (4) Re-download the file if it shows as corrupted, (5) Update your Form 27D PDF Converter Utility to the latest version. If issues persist, verify your TAN is active and registered on TRACES.

How long does it take for Conso file to become available for download?

After submitting a Conso file request on TRACES, the file typically becomes available for download within 24-48 hours. The processing time depends on the volume of transactions in your filed return. You can check the status by going to Downloads → Requested Downloads. When the status changes from "Submitted" to "Available", you can download the file. Large files with many deductee records may take longer to process.

Is the password case-sensitive for all TRACES documents?

Yes, all TRACES document passwords are case-sensitive. The standard format requires UPPERCASE for TAN and PAN characters. However, some employers or deductors may generate Form 16/16A with lowercase PAN characters. If uppercase doesn't work, try the exact same password in lowercase. For Conso files and Justification Reports, UPPERCASE is strictly required. Never mix uppercase and lowercase within the same password.

Can I download Form 16/16A without knowing the password?

No, you cannot access Form 16/16A ZIP files without the password, as they contain sensitive personal and financial information. The password is designed to ensure only the rightful deductee can open the certificate. However, if you've forgotten your date of birth registered with PAN, you can check it on your PAN card, Form 26AS, or Income Tax Portal profile. Employers cannot change or bypass this password format as it's system-generated by TRACES.

Why do I need Conso file for filing TDS corrections?

Conso (Consolidated) file is mandatory for TDS corrections because it contains the complete data of your original return plus all previous corrections. When you file a correction (C1, C2, C3, etc.), you need to start with the current state of your return, which is available only in the Conso file. Without it, you cannot: (1) Identify which records to correct, (2) Add new deductee rows, (3) Modify challan details, (4) Fix PAN or amount errors. The Conso file serves as the base template for any correction activity.

What is the password format for TRACES intimation received via email?

For TDS/TCS intimations received via email from TRACES, the password format is: First 4 characters of TAN in UPPERCASE + underscore (_) + date of filing of regular TDS/TCS statement in DDMMYYYY format. For example, if your TAN is AAAAA1235A and the regular statement was filed on December 16, 2018, the password would be AAAA_16122018. Note that only the first 4 characters of TAN are used, not all 10.

How do I convert Justification Report text file to Excel?

To convert JR text file to Excel: (1) Download TRACES Justification Report Generation Utility from TRACES, (2) Extract the utility ZIP file, (3) Open the Excel file and click "Enable Content" to enable macros, (4) Browse and select your JR text file, (5) Select destination folder for output, (6) Click "Generate Report". The utility will convert the text file into a structured Excel spreadsheet with all defaults categorized by error type, making it easy to identify and rectify errors.

Can TAN be used in lowercase for any TRACES password?

No, TAN should always be in UPPERCASE for all TRACES passwords including Conso file, Justification Report, Form 27D, and Transaction Based Reports. The only exception is TDS Provisional Receipt/Acknowledgement, where TAN should be in lowercase. For all ZIP file extractions and certificate generations, use UPPERCASE TAN. Using lowercase when UPPERCASE is required will result in "Invalid Password" error.

What should I do if Conso file shows "file format is not proper" error?

This error typically occurs when: (1) File was not fully downloaded – re-download using Download Manager, (2) File got corrupted during download – check file size and compare with expected size, (3) Using outdated RPU (Return Preparation Utility) version – update to latest RPU, (4) Trying to open Conso file for manually filed return – Conso files are available only for electronically filed returns, (5) Wrong FY-Quarter-FormType combination selected. If issue persists, contact TRACES support at contactus@tdscpc.gov.in with your Request Number and TAN.

Conclusion: Mastering TRACES Password Formats for Seamless TDS Compliance

Understanding TRACES password formats is not just about opening files – it's about ensuring smooth TDS compliance, timely certificate generation, and accurate tax credit claims. Whether you're an employee accessing your Form 16, a freelancer checking Form 16A, or a tax professional managing multiple clients' TDS returns, knowing these password formats saves valuable time and prevents compliance delays.

The key takeaways to remember are:

• Form 16/16A: PAN (first 5 chars, UPPERCASE) + DOB (DDMMYYYY)
• Conso File: TAN_Request Number (all UPPERCASE with underscore)
• Justification Report: JR_TAN_FormType_Quarter_FY (4 underscores, all UPPERCASE)
• Form 27D/TBR: TAN only (UPPERCASE)

Always maintain a record of your TAN, PAN, date of birth, and Request Numbers in a secure location for quick access. Double-check capitalization, date formats, and underscores before attempting to open any TRACES file. If you encounter persistent errors, don't hesitate to reach out to TRACES support or consult a tax professional.

As TDS compliance becomes increasingly digital, staying updated with TRACES password formats and procedures ensures you remain compliant with Income Tax regulations while minimizing filing errors and penalties. Regular reconciliation of TDS credits through Form 26AS and prompt correction of errors using these tools will help you maintain clean tax records.

Remember: The last date for time-barred correction statements is March 31, 2026 for certain financial years. Don't delay your corrections – download your Conso and Justification Reports today and ensure your TDS records are accurate!