How to Get a PAN Card for a Minor Child in India
A child does not need to be 18 to have a PAN. A parent or legal guardian can apply on the child's behalf. Here is what you need to know before you begin.
Can a minor get a PAN card?
Yes. A minor can be allotted a Permanent Account Number (PAN) in their own name. Since a child cannot complete the application independently, a parent or legal guardian applies as the child's representative assessee. The PAN belongs to the child; the adult helps with the application and verification.
Documents to keep ready
The application portal will show the current accepted documents and formats. Typically, you should have:
- Child's date-of-birth proof: for example, a birth certificate, passport or another document accepted by the service provider.
- Child's Aadhaar details: where applicable to the chosen application and verification route.
- Representative assessee's proof: the parent or guardian's identity and address documents, as required.
- Photograph and supporting details: as requested by the current application process.
Do not assume that every portal or application route accepts exactly the same combination of documents. Check the live checklist before submitting.
Where can you apply?
For an Indian citizen, use an authorised PAN service provider. The two commonly used online portals are:
Follow the portal's current instructions for a fresh PAN application for a minor through a representative assessee. The Income-tax Department's applicable form and process may change, so rely on the live portal rather than an old saved form or third-party checklist.
How to apply online
- Open an authorised portal. Choose the fresh PAN application route applicable to an individual Indian citizen.
- Read the instructions for a minor. Confirm how the representative assessee must be recorded and which form and verification method apply.
- Enter the child's details. Check the spelling of the child's name and date of birth against the supporting documents.
- Enter the parent's or guardian's details. Complete the representative assessee section as instructed.
- Upload or submit the required documents. Use the accepted file formats and ensure the scans are clear.
- Complete verification and payment. Review the application before submitting and pay the fee displayed by the service provider.
- Save the acknowledgement. Keep the reference number so you can track the application.
Does the child need to sign?
A minor cannot independently complete the formalities. The parent or legal guardian completes the representative assessee process and follows the portal's current instructions for signature, photograph and verification. Do not use an adult's signature as though it were the child's; follow the specific instructions shown for a minor application.
What happens when the child turns 18?
The PAN remains the child's PAN. Turning 18 does not mean the child should apply for a second PAN. The child may need to update the PAN record with their own photograph, signature and other details through the prescribed correction or update process.
Will a child's PAN help with mutual fund investing?
It can form part of the documentation when a parent or legal guardian invests in mutual funds on behalf of a minor. The minor is generally the sole unit holder in that folio, while the parent or court-appointed legal guardian operates it. The AMC's application, bank and KYC requirements must also be met; a PAN by itself does not open a mutual fund folio.
For the next step, read our guide: How to Start an SIP for Your Child.
Keep the details consistent. Names and dates of birth should match across the child's identity and supporting documents. A mismatch can delay processing.
Need further information?
Every family's financial goals are different. If you would like to understand your options or need help getting started, get in touch with Pecuniam.
Write to us at hello@kiddo.money and our team will be happy to help.
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