The PAN (Permanent Account Number) card is an important identity card issued by the Income Tax Department of India. It is required to open a bank account, pay taxes, and obtain loans. While this card is generally issued to adults, minors (under 18 years of age) can also apply for it, especially for educational and financial purposes. The PAN card application for a minor is made by their parent or legal guardian. The process is the same as for adults, although additional documents are required.
What is a Minor PAN Card?
The Minor PAN Card is issued to individuals under the age of 18. This card does not have the holder’s photograph or signature. Once the individual turns 18 and updates their PAN details, the card is converted into a ‘Major’ PAN card.
Differences Between Minor and Adult PAN Cards
While a minor’s PAN card and an adult’s PAN card are structurally similar, there are some key differences. A minor’s PAN card does not display the minor’s photograph or signature. Additionally, the proof of address submitted with the application is that of the legal guardian, while the identity and date of birth documents must specifically belong to the minor.
Benefits of Minor PAN Card
A PAN card for a minor is an important financial tool that helps parents manage the financial affairs of the child effectively. Once the child turns 18, the same PAN card remains valid for all future financial activities.
Online Application Process
- Go to the NSDL website: NSDL PAN Services.
- Choose “New PAN – Indian Citizen (Form 49A)” and select “Individual.”
- Fill in the minor’s name, and parent’s contact details, and click on “Submit.”
- Choose the option to upload the required documents and select if a physical PAN card is needed.
- Enter the details of both the minor and the parents, then upload the necessary documents.
- Pay the application fee through debit card, credit card, or net banking.
- After payment, you will receive an identification number.
- If physical documents are submitted, send them to the Income Tax PAN Services Unit in Pune.
Documents Required for Minor PAN Card
- Age Proof: Aadhaar Card, Birth Certificate, Passport, or School Marksheet.
- Address Proof: Passport, Voter ID, Aadhaar Card, or a Utility Bill (less than 3 months old).
Offline Application Process
- Download Form 49A from the NSDL website.
- Fill in all the required details correctly.
- Attach documents such as identity proof, address proof, birth proof, and two passport-size photographs.
- Submit the form at the nearest PAN centre (TIN Facilitation Center) and pay the application fee.