Answer Book question
No. Many banks accept a legal heirship certificate plus affidavit, indemnity bond and NOCs for amounts below their internal threshold. Above it, or if heirs disagree, they will insist on a succession certificate or probate. Ask for the bank's deceased-claims policy in writing and the threshold amount.
No. Many banks accept a legal heirship certificate plus affidavit, indemnity bond and NOCs for amounts below their internal threshold. Above it, or if heirs disagree, they will insist on a succession certificate or probate. Ask for the bank's deceased-claims policy in writing and the threshold amount.
One branch insists on a succession certificate for a ₹90,000 account. The family asks for the bank's policy. Head office confirms indemnity suffices below a stated amount. Claim settled in three weeks.
RBI guidance encourages banks to settle claims of deceased depositors with simplified documentation where there is no dispute; banks set thresholds. Branch staff sometimes default to the strictest route.
Bank's written policy and threshold Whether all heirs agree Amount Nominee status
Accepting the branch's first answer.
Kerala Rising can help draft the request for the bank's deceased-claims policy.
Below threshold: indemnity route, weeks. Above: court, months.
Disputed estates or very large sums: the court route is appropriate.
Ask for the policy in writing Prepare the indemnity file Escalate to the bank's nodal officer if needed
What if there is no nominee? How do I find all of my father's bank accounts?
Family support · Documents
RBI guidance on deceased depositors' claims and UDGAM portal · SEBI/AMFI transmission procedures · IRDAI claim guidelines · Kerala Registration and Revenue Department procedures for legal heirship · Indian Succession Act / Hindu Succession Act as applicable Rates, limits and whether you may qualify change. Confirm with the official source. Ask Kerala Rising: Start with a Family Asset Inventory. Send us what you know so far. even a name and a bank. and we will help you work through every place worth checking. WhatsApp +1 443 595 9000 · keralarising.com Kerala Rising › Family › After a death · After a death 13
This page is general orientation, not personal insurance, investment, medical, legal, lending, tax, or professional advice. Rules, rates, benefits, and claim or application decisions can change. Confirm the current position with the named official source and use a licensed or qualified professional where your situation requires one. Kerala Rising does not decide whether you may qualify, approve claims, or promise an outcome.