NACH / OTM Mandate Form: How to Fill & Download
A complete guide to the NACH / One Time Mandate (OTM) — what it is, how the auto-debit works, the documents required, step-by-step filling instructions, registration timelines, and a free universal mandate form you can download.
What is a NACH / OTM mandate?
A NACH mandate — also called a One Time Mandate (OTM) — is a one-time authorisation you give your bank to auto-debit a set maximum amount towards your mutual fund investments. Once registered, your SIP instalments and lump-sum purchases are deducted automatically, without logging in or paying manually each time.
NACH stands for National Automated Clearing House, the system run by NPCI since 2016 that replaced the older ECS. The big advantage: one OTM can power multiple SIPs and purchases within the limit you set — you don't register again for each one.
How the OTM auto-debit works
- You authorise: You register the mandate with bank account, IFSC, a maximum amount, and frequency.
- Bank validates: The request goes through NACH; your bank verifies and activates the mandate.
- AMC requests debit: On each SIP date, the fund house sends a debit request via NACH.
- Auto-debit: Your bank debits only the SIP/purchase amount (within the cap) and credits your folio.
Who should use a NACH / OTM mandate?
- SIP investors who want hands-free monthly investing.
- Lump-sum investors who invest online without a payment gateway each time.
- Anyone whose SIP auto-debit failed and needs a fresh mandate.
- Both individual and non-individual unitholders can register OTM.
Documents required
How to fill the NACH / OTM form — step by step
- Mandate type: Tick Create (or Modify / Cancel for an existing mandate).
- AMC / UMRN: Write the fund house name. For modify/cancel, add the UMRN of the existing mandate.
- Bank account: Enter bank name, account number, IFSC and account type (SB/CA/CC).
- Maximum amount: Set a cap a little higher than your current SIPs, so you won't need to re-register later.
- Frequency: Choose Monthly, Quarterly, or "As & when presented".
- Validity: Set a start date (within 120 days) and an end date, or mark "Until Cancelled".
- Account holder: Fill name, PAN, mobile and email.
- Sign: Sign exactly as per bank records — all account holders sign for joint accounts.
e-Mandate — the faster online way
Most fund houses and registrars now offer a paperless e-Mandate. You select your folio and bank, then authenticate online via net banking or an Aadhaar/debit-card OTP. e-Mandates are usually approved in a few days — much faster than physical forms.
Registration timeline
| Mode | Typical time to activate |
|---|---|
| e-Mandate (online) | About 2–3 working days |
| Physical NACH form | About 15–30 calendar days |
| First SIP debit | After the mandate is active, on your SIP date |
Common rejection reasons
- Signature mismatch with bank records — the most common cause.
- Any mandatory field left blank (account number, IFSC, amount, frequency).
- Wrong IFSC or an inactive/closed bank account.
- Maximum amount lower than the SIP amount.
- Start date set more than 120 days ahead.
- Mismatch between mandate name and folio holder.
Frequently asked questions
What is the full form of OTM?
What is the difference between NACH and OTM?
Is there a limit on the mandate amount?
Can one mandate be used for multiple SIPs?
How long does NACH registration take?
Is my money safe with an auto-debit mandate?
Can I cancel or modify a mandate?
Do I need a mandate for a one-time lump sum?
What is UMRN?
What does "As & when presented" frequency mean?
Can non-individuals register an OTM?
What happens if a debit fails?
Is a cancelled cheque mandatory?
Can I start the mandate without a SIP?
How long is a mandate valid?
Can you help me register the mandate?
Reviewed by Binod Kumar Shukla
AMFI Registered Mutual Fund Distributor (ARN-50844) with 20+ years of experience helping investors across Delhi NCR set up SIPs, mandates, KYC and insurance.
Related forms & guides
Need help setting up your mandate?
I'll help you fill the NACH/OTM form correctly or set up a paperless e-Mandate, so your SIPs run without a hitch.
Disclaimer: This page is for investor education. The universal NACH/OTM form provided here helps collect your details and is not a substitute for an AMC's or bank's official mandate form; final submission may require the official form. Mutual fund investments are subject to market risks; read all scheme related documents carefully.