Not Permitted Without Employer Involvement

• An individual cannot open a salary account independently without employer authorization.
• Salary accounts are opened through a tie-up between the employer and the bank.
• Banks require proof that the applicant is employed by a registered organization.
• Without employer coordination, only a regular savings account can be opened.
• The bank classifies it based on the account’s source of income and usage.

Employer-Initiated Process

• The employer provides employee details and salary structure to the bank.
• Banks create accounts in bulk with agreed features and privileges.
• Account opening forms are usually submitted at the workplace or via employer portals.
• Some banks conduct on-site verification or online onboarding for employees.
• Once verified, the account is activated and linked to payroll.

Exception with Proof of Employment

• In rare cases, a bank may allow salary account opening if valid employment proof and salary slip are submitted.
• This is more likely if the company already has an arrangement with the bank.
• Such accounts may be offered after contacting the branch directly.
• Still, bank approval depends on internal policies and documentation.
• Freelancers or self-employed individuals do not qualify for salary accounts.

Conversion from Savings to Salary Account

• If an employee joins a company partnered with a bank, they can convert their savings account into a salary account.
• The employer must confirm employment through HR or official channels.
• The bank then updates the account type and applies salary account benefits.
• Regular salary credit is mandatory to retain the salary account status.
• Without it, the account reverts to a regular savings account.

Recommendation for Individuals

• If not eligible for a salary account, open a zero-balance savings account or basic savings account.
• These offer similar digital and banking services with fewer conditions.
• Banks may upgrade the account later based on employment details.
• Always check the bank’s eligibility criteria before applying.