A minor’s demat account helps children learn savings and investment habits early.
Parents act as guardians and manage the account until the child turns 18.
Easy steps and simple documents make starting an account quick and secure.
A demat account holds shares and investments in digital form. Parents often look for ways to help their children start saving or investing early, and opening a demat account for a minor is one of the simplest ways to do so. It allows families to invest in stocks, mutual funds, or bonds on behalf of a child while keeping everything secure and under proper supervision.
A demat account for a minor is not just about investing. It helps children understand how money can grow over time. It also helps parents save for future goals, such as college or other expenses. Having an account in the child’s name gives a sense of ownership and teaches them about saving and investing. Since the guardian manages it, every transaction stays under watch.
There are some clear rules before starting. The account must be opened by the child’s guardian, usually a parent. The child cannot be a joint holder, and the guardian will handle buying and selling.
It should be noted that this account is designated only for investment, and cannot be used to actively trade. When the minor turns 18 years old, we would be able to convert their minor account into an adult demat account, simply by completing fresh KYC steps. These processes are safeguards to protect the assets held in the account and to ensure the validity of investment transactions.
Also Read: How to Open a Demat Account in India: Step-by-Step Guide
First, select a financial company that will allow a minor account. Many banks and online brokers allow minor accounts. The financial company must be registered with NSDL or CDSL, which are the two central depositories in India.
Both individuals must submit a number of documents, including:
PAN card for the guardian and child, if available
Proof of the child’s date of birth, such as a birth certificate or a passport
Proof of address and ID for guardian
Bank account details under the guardian’s name
Having these documents on hand will streamline and speed up the process.
The application form is filled in with the child’s name and the guardian will sign for the child. Basic information is completed, such as name and date of birth and guardian information.
Brokers typically request in-person or video verification. The guardian may need to show original documents during this step. It confirms that all information is correct.
Once the form is submitted, the company checks everything. If the details are correct, a demat account number is given. The guardian then gets the login details to start using the account.
When the minor turns 18, the account is changed to a regular one. Fresh documents and KYC are needed to update ownership.
Also Read: When to Sell a Stock: How Long Should You Hold for Maximum Profits?
Have your documentation ready, especially the birth certificate and PAN card.
Select a service provider that has a good support system and simple fees.
Leverage this account to help teach your child the art of saving, investing, and money management.
Be sure to add a nominee to keep your investments safe.
Monitor the account frequently and trace growth.
Opening a demat account in the name of a minor is an excellent way to start developing healthy financial habits at a young age. It is a very straightforward process if all the documents are in place, and the parents administer the account until the minor turns 18, at which point the minor gains full ownership, and the parents will not be able to access it anymore. It is good to start early as your children can actually visualize how their money can grow and learn the value of saving and investing for the future.
1. What is the main purpose of opening a demat account for a minor?
It helps children start investing early while parents manage it. It builds saving habits and teaches how money grows over time.
2. Can a minor directly trade or manage investments in their demat account?
No, all transactions are handled by the guardian until the child reaches the age of 18. The minor cannot trade independently before that.
3. What documents are required to open a minor’s demat account?
PAN cards, birth certificates, IDs, and address proofs of the guardian, as well as bank account details, are required for opening.
4. What happens to the demat account when the minor becomes an adult?
Once the child turns 18, the account is converted into a regular one after new KYC verification and document submission.
5. Why should parents consider opening a demat account for their child?
It fosters financial awareness, encourages a habit of saving, and helps parents plan for their child’s long-term future goals.