PAN Card for Minors - Process, Benefits, and Documents Required

Obtaining a PAN card for minors is a crucial step in securing their financial future. This article will guide you through the process, highlight the benefits, and outline the necessary documents to apply for a PAN card for minors.

PAN card for minors

A PAN card, or Permanent Account Number, is a unique 10-character alphanumeric identifier issued by the Income Tax Department of India. While it is typically associated with adults, minors can also obtain a PAN card. This document is essential for various financial transactions and serves as a form of identification.

Online process to applying for a minor PAN card

Applying for a PAN card for minors has become a streamlined process, thanks to the availability of online services. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the official NSDL website:
   Log on to the NSDL (National Securities Depository Limited) website, which is the authorised portal for PAN card applications.
   
   
2. Select the 'New PAN - Indian Citizen (Form 49A)' option:
   Navigate to the 'Application Type' and choose 'New PAN - Indian Citizen (Form 49A)' as minors fall under this category.
   
   
3. Fill in the form:
   Complete the form with accurate details. Ensure that you provide the minor's information, such as name, date of birth, and photographs. The guardian's details will also be required.
   
   
4. Submit supporting documents:
   Attach the necessary documents, including proof of identity, address, and date of birth of the minor. The guardian's PAN card copy is also required.
   
   
5. Pay the necessary fee:
   Pay the applicable fee for processing the PAN card application. Online payment options are available for convenience.
   
   
6. Submit the form:
   After completing the form and attaching the support documents, submit the application. A unique 15-digit acknowledgement number will be generated.
   
   
7. Track the application status:
   You can track the status of the application using the acknowledgement number. Once processed, the PAN card will be dispatched to the provided address.

Benefits of having a PAN card for minors

Financial education:

A PAN card for minors can serve as an introduction to financial responsibility, teaching them about taxation and financial transactions.

Investment opportunities:

With a PAN card, minors can invest in various financial instruments like mutual funds and fixed deposits, fostering a habit of savings and investment from an early age.

Scholarships and government schemes:

Many scholarship programs and government schemes require a PAN card for eligibility. Having one, opens up opportunities for educational and financial benefits.

Documents required for PAN card for minors

Here are the documents you need to make a PAN for minors.

Proof of identity:

1. Birth certificate of the minor
2. Aadhaar card
3. School identity card

Proof of address:

1. Aadhaar card
2. School bonafide certificate
3. Utility bills of the guardian

Proof of date of birth:

1. Birth certificate
2. Passport
3. School leaving certificate

Securing a PAN card for minors is a crucial step towards financial inclusion and literacy. The simplified online application process, coupled with the array of benefits it offers, makes it a worthwhile endeavour for parents and guardians. By instilling financial responsibility early on, pave the way for a financially savvy and secure future for the younger generation.

Requirement of a PAN card for a minor

A PAN card may be necessary for a minor under the following circumstances:

• When parents designate their minor child as a nominee for investments, shares, or similar financial products.
• When parents make investments in the child's name.
• When a bank account is to be opened for the child, or a Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana account is to be opened for a minor daughter.

While a minor's income from investments or holdings is generally not taxable and is clubbed with the parent's income, there are exceptions requiring a PAN card:

• When the minor is physically blind, disabled, or similarly impaired.
• When the minor has earned income independently.
• When the minor has earned income through their skills, knowledge, or talent.

Online procedure to apply for a minor's PAN card

To apply for a minor's PAN card online, follow these steps:

1. Visit the official NSDL website.
2. Select "New PAN - Indian Citizen (Form 49A)" as the application type and "Individual" as the category.
3. Complete all required details as per the instructions for Form 49A. Enter the minor's full name, parent's mobile number, and email address, then click "Submit."
4. Choose the method for document submission and indicate whether a physical PAN card is required.
5. Provide the minor's personal details, parent's details, parent's address, contact number, AO code (optional), and the signature of the parent or guardian.
6. Upload the minor's photograph and required documents.
7. Make the fee payment via debit card, credit card, demand draft, or net banking, then click "Submit."
8. An acknowledgment number will be generated for tracking the application status.
9. If physical documents were selected, enclose all required documents and the demand draft (if applicable) in an envelope and mail it to the Pune address of the Income Tax PAN Services Unit.

Upon successful application verification, the PAN card will be sent to the specified address within 15-20 working days.

Fees for a minor's PAN card

The fee for a minor's PAN card varies based on the document submission method and whether a physical or e-PAN is requested. The following table outlines the fees (including GST):

Steps to update a minor's PAN card upon becoming a major

When a minor attains majority, they must apply to update their PAN card to reflect the changes. To convert a minor's PAN card to a regular PAN card, follow these steps:

1. Visit the official NSDL website.
2. Select "Changes or Corrections in existing PAN data/ Reprint of PAN card" as the application type and "Individual" as the category.
3. Choose the method for document submission and indicate whether a physical PAN card is required.
4. Enter the minor PAN number, name, date of birth, and gender. Check the "Photo Mismatch" and "Signature Mismatch" boxes to provide updated information.
5. Enter any necessary changes to the PAN card details.
6. Upload required documents, including photos and signatures, and submit the application.
7. Make the required payment. An acknowledgment number will be generated for tracking the application status.

Alternatively, the "Changes or Corrections in existing PAN data/ Reprint of PAN card" form can be completed and submitted offline at a nearby PAN centre.