If you're investing or financially planning for your child's future, a Minor PAN card can be crucial. Parents or legal guardians can apply for it both online and offline.

These days, most parents begin financially planning for their children's future from a very young age. Whether investing in a child's name, opening a bank account, or making them a nominee in a scheme, a Minor PAN card is often required for all these tasks.

Not only this, but if a child is earning money on their own, their PAN card is also essential. Since a minor cannot apply for a PAN card themselves, this responsibility falls on the parents or legal guardian. Let's understand in simple terms why a Minor PAN card is necessary and how it is obtained.

Why is a Minor PAN Card Necessary?

A Minor PAN Card may be needed in the following situations:

• Investing in mutual funds or FDs in a child's name
• Opening a bank account in a child's name
• Making a child a nominee in investments or insurance
• In the event that a child has their own income, a PAN card becomes a necessary document for all these purposes.

Who Can Apply?

A minor cannot apply for a PAN card on their own. A parent or legal guardian must apply on their behalf. The application can be made both online and offline.

How to Apply for a Minor PAN Card Online

If you want to apply online, follow these steps:

• First, visit the official NSDL website.
• Select Form 49A and read all instructions carefully.
• Select the correct category and fill in the minor's personal details.
• Now, upload the minor's age proof and the required guardian documents.
• Upload the guardian's signature on the form.
• Pay the fee and submit the form.

After submission, you will receive a receipt number, which you can use to track the status of the application. The PAN card is delivered to your address within approximately 15 days of verification.

How to Get a Minor's PAN Card Offline

If you prefer the offline method, download Form 49A from the official website. Fill out the form correctly. Attach two passport-size photographs of the child. Attach all required documents to the form. Submit the form along with the fee to the nearest NSDL office. After verification, the PAN card will be sent to the address provided.

Have these documents ready when applying

• The minor's parents' address and identity proof will be required.
• The applicant's address and identity proof are also required.
• The minor's guardian must submit any one of the following documents as proof of identity: Aadhaar card, ration card, passport, driving license, or voter ID card.
• For address proof, you must submit a copy of your Aadhaar card, post office passbook, property registration documents, or proof of residence.

Important Rules for a Minor's PAN Card

A PAN card issued in a minor's name does not contain their photo or signature, so it cannot be used as proof of identity. When a minor turns 18, they must submit a separate application to update their PAN card.

FAQs

Q1. Is it mandatory to have a PAN card issued in a child's name?

A PAN card is required if the child has investments, bank accounts, or income in their name.

Q2. Can a minor apply for a PAN card themselves?

No, a parent or legal guardian applies on their behalf.

Q3. How long does it take to receive a minor's PAN card?

After verification, a PAN card is usually issued within 15 days.

Q4. Is a minor's PAN card valid as proof of identity?

No, because it does not contain photos and signatures.