What to Do with Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, and More After a Loved One Passes
What to Do with Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, and More After a Loved One Passes
In today’s world, nearly all governmental and official activities, such as opening bank accounts, require essential documents like Aadhaar, voter ID, and PAN cards. However, many individuals are uncertain about how to handle their paperwork in the event of a family member’s passing. Here’s some critical information about them.
Legal heirs frequently experience confusion regarding the appropriate actions to take with these documents—whether to keep, hand over, or dispose of them. Although there are no one-size-fits-all guidelines for managing such documents, this comprehensive guide outlines the processes and factors to consider for each option.
Voter Id
To cancel a voter ID after an individual has passed away, you must complete Form 7 in person at the election office. Once this is done, the voter ID will be officially canceled. A death certificate may be required to process the revocation of the voter ID.
Aadhaar Card
It is not possible to cancel or return an Aadhaar card, but you do have the option to lock it. To lock your Aadhaar card, go to the official website www.uidai.gov.in, navigate to ‘My Aadhaar,’ click on ‘Aadhaar Services,’ and select ‘Lock/Unlock Biometrics.’
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has yet to connect its system with state death registries, and obtaining an Aadhaar number is not a requirement for registering a death.
PAN Card
Relatives of a PAN cardholder are required to return the card following the cardholder’s death. It is advisable to contact the Income Tax Department regarding this matter. To avoid any complications in the future, ensure that all accounts associated with the deceased have been either closed or transferred to another individual’s name before returning the PAN card.
Passport
A passport, much like an Aadhaar card, cannot be canceled. Once a passport reaches its expiration date, it becomes invalid. It is essential to keep it safe until that time to avoid it falling into the wrong hands.
There are no legal consequences for not submitting these documents. Nevertheless, neglecting to inform the issuing authorities puts the documents at risk of being exploited by fraudsters. Notifying the authorities enhances security and mitigates these potential threats.
