Yes, an illiterate person can be issued a debit card by a bank. In India and many other countries, banks have inclusive policies to ensure that financial services are accessible to everyone, including people who cannot read or write. Being illiterate does not stop a person from having a bank account or using basic banking services, such as ATM/debit cards, passbooks, or cheque books.
Let’s explore how this works and what conditions or precautions are usually followed by banks.
Can an Illiterate Person Open a Bank Account?
Yes
An illiterate person can open a bank account.
- Banks follow RBI guidelines (in India) and similar regulations elsewhere that promote financial inclusion.
- Basic services are offered to people even if they cannot sign or read/write, using thumb impressions instead of signatures.
Can an Illiterate Person Get a Debit Card?
Yes, But with Certain Conditions
Banks generally allow illiterate persons to have ATM/debit cards, but there are some conditions and precautions in place to protect them from fraud or misuse.
How It Works
- The thumb impression of the person is taken on documents where signatures are required.
- The person is usually accompanied by a witness (someone known or a bank official) when applying for a debit card.
- Banks may offer biometric debit cards or PIN-based cards, making it easier for illiterate people to use ATMs.
- Banks often provide special assistance or guidance to help them understand how to use the card safely.
What Are the Bank’s Responsibilities?
Educating the Customer
- The bank staff explains how to use the debit card—like inserting it into an ATM, entering a PIN, and withdrawing cash.
- They inform the customer about keeping the PIN confidential.
Security Precautions
- Since the person cannot read transaction alerts or messages, banks may recommend linking the account to SMS alerts (if possible) or using biometric authentication where available.
- Some banks may set daily withdrawal limits to protect the account holder.
What RBI Guidelines Say (For India)
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) encourages banks to offer services to illiterate persons, including:
- Opening savings accounts
- Providing debit/ATM cards
- Ensuring proper guidance and protection against fraud
However, the decision to issue a debit card is often based on the bank’s discretion and their internal policies.
Are There Any Risks for Illiterate Customers?
Potential Risks
- Lack of awareness about safe banking practices may lead to fraud or scams.
- Difficulty in understanding transaction details or reading messages.
How Banks and Customers Can Minimize Risks
- Banks must educate the customer thoroughly.
- Family members or trusted persons can assist (but not misuse) the services.
- Biometric ATMs and audio assistance at ATMs help make banking more accessible.
Conclusion
Yes, an illiterate person can be issued a debit card. Banks aim to include everyone in the financial system, and they provide services with extra care to protect illiterate customers. With proper guidance and secure processes, they can safely use debit cards for ATM withdrawals, shopping, and digital transactions.
The goal is financial inclusion, ensuring that everyone has access to modern banking, regardless of literacy levels.
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