How Do I Add Nominee to my Demat Account

A nominee is a person designated by the account holder to receive securities or other assets after the death of the account holder. A Demat account without a nominee will be frozen if it is not added. As a result, investors will be unable to invest in the stock market. A nominee is crucial to ensuring a smooth transfer of shares in the event of the investor's death. Let's take a closer look at the process of adding a nominee in this article.

What is a Nominee in a Demat Account?

A nominee is an individual whom an investor can designate to receive securities or other assets in the event that the original account holder passes away. An account holder may designate someone as a nominee at any time. It does not require the beneficiary's permission. In case of an untimely death of the account holder, the account assets must be transferred to a nominee whom they trust completely. 

A nominee is helpful when an account holder dies unexpectedly, as it makes it easier for securities, such as mutual fund units, bonds, and shares, to be seamlessly transferred.

Legal heirs are saved from having to collect and submit multiple documents to the relevant authority, such as affidavits and no objection certificates. By adding a nominee, individuals can be confident that their loved ones will be financially stable in the event of their death.

How to add a Nominee to Demat Account online?

It is not mandatory to add a nominee to the Demat account, but it is advisable to do so. By taking this simple step, you can avoid a lot of trouble if the primary beneficiary passes away.

Step 1: Log in to your demat account

Using your User ID and Password, go to the website of your DP (Depository Participant) and log in to your demat account. In the event you don’t have a demat account, you obviously have to open one first and then choose a nominee. 

Step 2: Visit the nominations page

Visit the 'Nomination' page, which is mainly listed in the 'Setting' or 'Profile' section after you log in.

Step 3: Fill in nomination details

Complete the nomination form by entering the necessary information, including the nominee's name and address, relationship to the account holder, share of the account in terms of percentage, etc.

Step 4: Provide supporting documentation

You must attach scanned copies of the nominee's PAN card, proof of identification, and address in addition to the nomination form.

Step 5: Send the form in

Once you've completed the nomination application and attached all the necessary paperwork, submit it online. Before submitting it, you also have the option of selecting the investment proportion you wish to hand to your nominee.  

Step 6: Receive the acknowledgement receipt

Your DP will send you a form submission acknowledgement after you submit it.

Your depository participant will examine the submitted documents and the nomination form to confirm the information provided. The DP will then update/amend the nominee details in your demat account after the verification process is finished.

How many Nominees can be Added In Demat Account?

Each account beneficiary can have a maximum of three nominees attached to the same Demat account in India. When there is only one nominee, all securities are transferred to their account.

If there are multiple nominees, the beneficiary can decide whether the securities in his account will be distributed proportionally. Furthermore, they can assign securities to individual nominees based on a fixed percentage.

It is possible for the beneficiary to add, amend, or remove nominees at any time. Adding a nominee to your account is as easy as adding their names to the account opening form. By submitting the Annexure 1A form to your broker, you can also add, amend, or delete nominees later.

Why Should You Add a Nominee to a Demat Account?

Adding a nominee to your Demat account using a Demat account app is a crucial step in securing your investments and ensuring a legal smooth transition of assets to your loved ones in the event of unforeseen circumstances. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily add a nominee to your demat account online. Remember to choose a nominee wisely, considering the eligibility criteria, and provide accurate and up-to-date information while filling out the nomination details.

Who May Be Nominated?

When you are selecting your nominee(s), keep the following criteria in mind.

1. The nominated candidate can be your spouse, parents, siblings, kids, or any other person. If the guardian's information is included, a minor may also be registered as a nominee.

2. An organisation or the Karta of HUF cannot be chosen as a nominee.

Conclusion

Adding a nominee to your demat account is a crucial step in securing your investments and ensuring a legal smooth transition of assets to your loved ones in the event of unforeseen circumstances. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily add a nominee to your demat account online. Remember to choose a nominee wisely, considering the eligibility criteria, and provide accurate and up-to-date information while filling out the form.