How to delink Aadhaar from a bank account: Here's all you need to know

Once delinking is carried out, your bank will not treat Aadhaar as a KYC reference.

The Supreme Court of India in 2018 declared that it is no longer compulsory for most people to link Aadhaar to bank accounts. Though everyone started with linking Aadhaar to take advantage of subsidies and experience ease in opening accounts, there are some people who would now prefer to delink it due to issues regarding privacy or fear of data abuse. You can request its removal from your bank account if you do not wish to use Aadhaar as a master KYC document any further.

Process to delink Aadhaar from your bank account

In order to initiate the delinking procedure, you must provide a written application at your bank branch. Visit your home branch of the bank and ask for the Aadhaar delinking form or leave a written note containing your account number, Aadhaar number, and an explicit mention of the delinking request. You must provide a valid photo identification and sign the form. Some banks are able to offer online facilities through their net banking or mobile banking, but the secure method is an application in person. On making the application, the bank would usually complete the application within 7 to 10 working days.

What next after Aadhaar is delinked

Once delinking is carried out, your bank will not treat Aadhaar as a KYC reference. This will involve you submitting alternative proof of identity and address, such as a PAN card, passport, or voter ID card, to the bank so that they can fulfil their KYC requirements. Delinking does not lock your money or freeze your account status. But if government subsidies like LPG or DBT are being credited directly into that account, the subsidies will be stopped until you re-link Aadhaar once again or change your benefit account.

Are you able to re-link your Aadhaar in the future?

Yes, delinking is reversible. Let us say in the future you change your mind that you do not want to be de-linked after all—let's say you want to revive government subsidies again—you can undo it by visiting the bank and sending your Aadhaar data again, along with your consent. The bank will process your application just like a new Aadhaar linkage.

Delinking Aadhaar from your bank account is a decision that you can take yourself and is quite simple through a request made in writing to your bank. While it will not impact your regular banking, you need to consider the impact on any benefits being received under Aadhaar-linked benefits. Ensure your bank retains the updated KYC documents with them after delinking.

FAQs

Is delinking Aadhaar from my bank account legally acceptable?

Yes, Aadhaar has been held by the Supreme Court to not be obligatory for banking. You are able to obtain delinking at any time.

Will delinking Aadhaar freeze my bank account?

No, your account will remain fully functional. You may simply need to supply substitute KYC documents.

Can I do it online?

Most banks now require an in-branch visit for Aadhaar delinking, but some may offer the facility through internet banking or mobile banking.