In today’s times, every parent begins financial planning for their children’s bright future from a young age. Whether investing in mutual funds in their child’s name, opening an FD, or making them a nominee for a government scheme, a Minor PAN Card has become a mandatory document for all these tasks.
Even if your child is earning money through a TV show, advertisement, or their talent, tax regulations require that they have a PAN card. Since a minor cannot apply for a PAN card themselves, this responsibility falls on the parents or legal guardian.
Why is a Minor PAN Card Necessary
People often wonder why a minor child needs a PAN card. Indeed, banking and investment regulations have become increasingly stringent. You absolutely need a minor PAN card in the following situations:
- If you want to open a savings account in your child’s name for their future.
- To make the child the primary investor or nominee in mutual funds, stock market schemes, or schemes like Sukanya Samriddhi.
- If the child is earning money through a special talent (such as acting or sports), the parents should file income tax returns on that income.
- To transfer any inherited movable or immovable property to the child.
Who can apply?
According to Indian law, no child under the age of 18 can apply for a PAN card on their own. Only their parents or legal guardian can apply on their behalf as a ‘Representative Assessee’. You can easily apply for this application both online and offline.
How to get a minor PAN card online
If you want to avoid the hassle, the online method is best. Follow the steps below:
First, log in to the official website of NSDL (now Protean).
Go to the ‘Online PAN Application’ section and select Form 49A.
Select ‘Individual’ in the category and carefully fill in the minor child’s personal information (name, date of birth, etc.).
Since this is a minor case, it is mandatory to provide the parent or guardian’s details on the form.
Upload the scanned child’s birth certificate and the guardian’s identity and address proof.
Upload the guardian’s signature on the form and pay the prescribed fee online.
After the application is submitted, you will receive an Acknowledgement Number, which will help you track the status of your card. The PAN card is delivered to your home address within approximately 15 days of verification.
Offline Application Process
If you are not comfortable using the internet, you can also apply offline. To do this, download Form 49A from the official website and print it. Fill in the form with the child’s complete information and attach two passport-size photographs of the child. Attach photocopies of all required documents and submit them along with the fees to the nearest NSDL office or PAN Facilitation Center.