What is nomination in mutual funds and why is it important?

Gone are the days when mutual funds were considered a niche investment option meant only for savvy investors. Today, mutual funds have become a household name with investors from all walks of life parking their hard-earned money in these financial instruments. However, not many investors realize the importance of mutual fund nomination, a small but significant feature that can make a huge difference to one's mutual fund investments.
Read on to learn more about nomination in mutual funds and see why it is important.

• Table of contents

1. What is nomination in mutual funds?
2. Why is nomination important in mutual funds?
3. Who can be appointed as a nominee?
4. How to nominate a person in mutual funds?

What is Nomination in Mutual Funds?

Nomination is the process of appointing a person who will receive the mutual fund units after the demise of the investor. The nominee does not become the account holder or joint holder of the mutual fund units. They are only entitled to receive the units as per the nomination after submitting valid documents. Nomination can be made at the time of purchase of mutual fund units or later by submitting a nomination form. An investor can change the nominee at any time through a fresh nomination form. Investors can also opt out of making the nomination.

Why is Nomination Important in Mutual Funds?

• Quick Settlement of Claims: In case of the death of the mutual fund investor, the nominee can easily claim the investment by providing KYC documents and death certificate. Without a nominee, the claimant will have to go through a lengthy legal process to get ownership of the units transferred in their name. This takes several months usually. Nomination ensures a smooth and hassle-free settlement of mutual fund units to the intended person.
• Avoid Disputes Among Claimants: For long term wealth creation goals, mutual funds form a core part of one's portfolio. In the absence of a nominee, the fund house will transfer the units to the legal heir. If there are multiple legal heirs like spouse and children, conflicts can arise with the claimant. Nomination avoids any dispute between the claimant.
• Accurate Transmission of Units: Nomination ensures your mutual fund units are transmitted correctly after an investor’s demise. In the absence of a nomination, some legal heirs may be unaware of the mutual fund investments, and hence these may remain unclaimed. The AMC transmits the units solely to the nominee upon valid documentation. This prevents any loss of investments for legal heirs.
• Minor can be Appointed as Nominee: An adult investor can nominate a minor as their nominee. In that case, the units will be transferred to the guardian of the minor nominee. On attaining maturity, the nominee child can provide valid KYC documents and claim the mutual fund units.

Who can be Appointed as a Nominee?

• Individual(s): Spouse, child or parents can be nominated as nominee(s).
• Minor(s): A guardian can be appointed on behalf of the minor nominee.

It is advisable to nominate a major individual as the nominee for seamless transmission of units to intended persons.

How to Nominate a Person in Mutual Funds?

1. At the Time of Purchase: While filling the application form for investing in a new mutual fund, an investor can provide the nominee details in the nomination section. This will register the nominee in the new mutual fund purchase. Investors can also opt out of nomination.
2. Later through Nomination Form: An investor can change or modify the nominee later by filling up a nomination form available with the Asset Management Company (AMC) or registrar. One needs to provide existing folio details along with new nominee information.
3. Transmission of Units: KYC-compliant nominees can help quicken the transmission of units. Investors must ensure their nominee is KYC compliant for smooth processing.

Conclusion

Nomination is a critical aspect of mutual fund investing in India. By nominating a person, investors can simplify the claims process and prevent disputes over the ownership of mutual fund units. Investors should opt for nomination at the time of investment or later through a nomination form. Periodic review of the nominee can help ensure smooth transmission of mutual funds to the intended person.

FAQs:

Can an NRI nominate a person in India for their mutual fund investments?

Yes, an NRI can nominate an Indian resident as nominee for their mutual fund folios. The nominee needs to submit valid KYC documents to claim the units.

Can I change the nominee later?

Yes, you can change the nominee any time by submitting a fresh nomination form to the AMC. The new nomination will override older nominations.

What documents are required for the nominee to claim mutual fund units?

The nominee needs to submit a transmission request, death certificate of the investor, and their KYC documents. Additional documents may be required in certain cases.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks; read all scheme-related documents carefully. This document should not be treated as an endorsement of the views/opinions or as investment advice. This document should not be construed as a research report or a recommendation to buy or sell any security. This document is for information purpose only and should not be construed as a promise on minimum returns or safeguard of capital. This document alone is not sufficient and should not be used for the development or implementation of an investment strategy. The recipient should note and understand that the information provided above may not contain all the material aspects relevant for making an investment decision. Investors are advised to consult their own investment advisor before making any investment decision in light of their risk appetite, investment goals and horizon. This information is subject to change without any prior notice.