PM Jan Dhan Yojana: how to open a zero-balance bank account and what you get

Here is the whole scheme in one place: what you get, who qualifies, how to apply, and what to check.

Key points

• No minimum balance and no maintenance charges on PMJDY accounts.
• RuPay debit card comes with Rs 2 lakh accident insurance cover.
• Overdraft facility of up to Rs 10,000 is available to eligible account holders.
• Linking your account with Aadhaar and mobile number makes government benefits easier to receive.

So what exactly do you get with a Jan Dhan account?

A PMJDY account is a basic savings bank account. It comes with no minimum balance requirement and no maintenance charges.

You get a RuPay debit card. This card carries an accident insurance cover of Rs 2 lakh.

Eligible account holders can also get an overdraft facility of up to Rs 10,000.

The account also helps you receive government subsidies and welfare payments directly, without middlemen.

Who can open an account, and who cannot?

Any Indian citizen can open a Jan Dhan account. There is no income limit.

Minors aged 10 and above can also open an account, with a guardian to manage it.

If you already have a basic savings account, you can convert it under the scheme, but check with your bank first.

Why was this scheme started, and what has changed?

The scheme was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 28 August 2014. It is run by the Department of Financial Services under the Ministry of Finance.

Its aim is to bring affordable banking to every household, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.

Over 59 crore accounts have now been opened, and deposits have grown steadily over the years.

Many accounts are inactive, so keep your account in use with regular transactions to avoid it becoming dormant.

What documents should you keep ready?

Keep an identity proof, such as your Aadhaar card. You may also need a passport-size photograph.

Keep an address proof. Aadhaar or a voter ID often works, but confirm with your bank.

Keep your mobile number ready, because it should be linked with the account.

How do you open an account, step by step?

Visit any bank branch that offers PMJDY accounts. You can also meet a Bank Mitra at a banking point near you.

Ask for the PMJDY account opening form. English and Hindi forms are available.

Fill in the form, attach your documents and photograph, and submit it at the bank.

Your account is usually opened on the spot, and you get a RuPay debit card after that.

What if you face a problem or your account is stuck?

First, talk to your bank branch and ask for the account status.

If the issue is not solved, you can call the PMJDY National Toll Free number, 1800 11 0001 or 1800 180 1111.

Beware of fraud. Never share your PIN, OTP or card details with anyone, even if they claim to be from the bank or government.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a minimum balance requirement?

No. PMJDY accounts have no minimum balance requirement and no maintenance charges.

Do I get insurance with the account?

Yes. The RuPay debit card carries an accident insurance cover of Rs 2 lakh.

Can I get a loan from my Jan Dhan account?

You can get an overdraft of up to Rs 10,000 if you are eligible. Account holders also gain access to formal credit such as loans under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana.

Can a minor open an account?

Yes, minors aged 10 and above can open an account with a guardian to manage it.

What happens if my account becomes inactive?

Inactive accounts may lose some benefits. Make regular transactions to keep your account active.