In today’s digital age, the importance of identity documents has increased rapidly, especially when it comes to financial transactions and investments. One such important document is the PAN Card. Contrary to popular belief, PAN cards can be made not only for adults but also for minors i.e. children below 18 years of age.
What is a PAN card and why is it important?
PAN (Permanent Account Number) is a unique identification number issued by the Government of India, which is used in income tax related transactions, banking services, investments and other financial operations. This document ensures financial transparency and tax payment.
What is Minor PAN Card?
Minor PAN card is issued to children who are below 18 years of age. It is mainly used for opening bank accounts, making investments or financial transactions in the name of children. Since minors cannot legally sign documents, this PAN card has neither a photo nor a signature.
When the child turns 18, it is mandatory to update this minor PAN card into a major PAN card.
What is the difference between minor and adult PAN card?
The structure of PAN cards issued to minors and adults is almost the same. The only difference is that the minor’s PAN card does not have his photo or signature. The address in the application is that of the guardian, but the proof of identity and date of birth of the child is required.
Benefits of PAN card for minor
This is a valid proof of date of birth.
The child can be made the nominee of financial assets or shares.
It is easy to start investing in the name of the child.
This lays the foundation for the child’s financial future.
Under what circumstances is PAN card of a minor necessary?
If the child is involved in financial transactions and is under a guardian.
His name is registered as a nominee in investments, insurance or will.
There are two ways to get a PAN card
1. Online Application Process:
Visit Protean’s website.
Select “Apply for New PAN” option.
Fill the online form and upload the required documents.
Do Aadhaar authentication after payment.
Then send the documents to the address given below:
Protean eGov Technologies Limited,
Income Tax PAN Services Unit,
4th floor, Sapphire Chambers, Baner Road,
Baner, Pune – 411045
2. Offline Application Process:
Visit your nearest TIN-Facilitation Centre or PAN Service Agency (PSA) office.
Fill the application form and complete the process with required documents.
List of required documents:
Proof of the child’s date of birth (eg birth certificate).
Guardian’s identity card and address proof (like Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID).
A detailed list is available on the Protean documentation page.
Documents valid as proof of identity:
The parent or guardian of a minor can submit any one of the following documents as proof of identity:
- Aadhar card
- Passport
- Ration Card
- Driving License
- Voter ID Card (Voter ID)
- Government-issued photo ID card
- Original proof of identity attested by an MLA, MP, Gazetted Officer or Member of Legislative Council
Age limit for minor PAN card
PAN card is no longer limited to earning persons, but as an important identity document, it is also considered necessary for minors. Under the Income Tax Act, there is no minimum age limit for minors to obtain a PAN card. This means that any parent can get a PAN card for their child below the age of five.
