What is Aadhaar Linking?
Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). Linking Aadhaar with a bank account allows the government and banks to verify the identity of the account holder quickly. This linking is essential for availing government subsidies, benefits, and some financial services.
Who Does It Protect?
- Protects against identity theft by authenticating bank account holders.
- Ensures direct benefit transfers to the correct bank accounts.
- Helps banks comply with regulatory measures like the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.
Why Was Aadhaar Linking Put in Place?
- To reduce fraud and fake accounts.
- To enable smooth and transparent transfer of government subsidies and welfare benefits.
- To fulfill regulatory requirements for Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance.
Can Aadhaar Be Linked to Multiple Bank Accounts?
- Aadhaar can be linked to multiple bank accounts. However, benefit transfers and subsidies are credited to only one account per individual, chosen during mandate submission.
- Banks verify Aadhaar details with UIDAI before linking.
- Each account linked with Aadhaar must be verified individually.
Step-by-Step Guide to Link Aadhaar to Multiple Bank Accounts
Method 1: Link Aadhaar Online Using Internet Banking
- Log in to your bank’s internet banking portal.
- Navigate to “Update Aadhaar” or “Aadhaar Linking” under account settings.
- Enter your Aadhaar number carefully twice for confirmation.
- Submit the request; you will receive confirmation once the linking is successful.
Method 2: Link Aadhaar via Bank Mobile App
- Open your bank’s mobile app.
- Go to the “Services” or “My Account” section.
- Find the option to update Aadhaar details.
- Enter your Aadhaar number twice and submit.
- Receive notification after successful linking.
Method 3: Link Aadhaar through SMS
- Send an SMS to 567676 in this format:
UID<space>Your Aadhaar Number<space>Your Bank Account Number - You will receive a confirmation message.
- The bank verifies the details with UIDAI and sends confirmation upon success.
Method 4: Link Aadhaar at Bank Branch
- Visit your bank branch.
- Request the Aadhaar linking form.
- Fill in your bank account and Aadhaar numbers.
- Attach a self-attested copy of your Aadhaar card.
- Submit the form and show the original Aadhaar for verification.
- Linking confirmation will be sent to your registered mobile number in a few days.
Method 5: Link Aadhaar Using ATM
- Visit your bank’s ATM.
- Insert your ATM card and enter your PIN.
- Choose “Services” > “Aadhaar Registration.”
- Enter your Aadhaar number twice and confirm.
- Receive confirmation SMS after successful linking.
How to Check Linking Status
- Visit the UIDAI website or use the mAadhaar app.
- Enter your Aadhaar number and authenticate using OTP.
- The system will display whether your Aadhaar is linked to your bank account(s).
Conclusion: Linking your Aadhaar card to multiple bank accounts is a straightforward process that enhances your banking security and convenience. It simplifies KYC compliance and ensures that government benefits, subsidies, and welfare payments reach you directly and without delay.
By linking Aadhaar, you help reduce the risk of fraud and unauthorized transactions in your accounts. Whether you link Aadhaar online, offline, via SMS, or through ATMs, the benefits outweigh the effort involved, making your banking experience safer and more efficient. It is advisable to complete this process promptly and keep checking your linking status regularly to stay updated.