Answer Book question
The asset still belongs to the legal heirs; it is just slower to claim. Institutions will ask for proof of succession. a legal heirship certificate, affidavit and indemnity bond for smaller amounts, or a succession certificate or probate from a court for larger ones. Expect weeks to months instead of days.
The asset still belongs to the legal heirs; it is just slower to claim. Institutions will ask for proof of succession. a legal heirship certificate, affidavit and indemnity bond for smaller amounts, or a succession certificate or probate from a court for larger ones. Expect weeks to months instead of days.
A ₹1.5 lakh FD with no nominee: the bank accepts heirship certificate, affidavit, indemnity and NOCs from other heirs. A ₹12 lakh FD with no nominee at another bank: succession certificate required; a court process of several months.
Without a nominee, the institution needs to know who is entitled and needs protection from competing claims. The threshold for court documents varies by institution and amount.
Amount Institution's policy on thresholds All legal heirs identified and willing to sign NOCs Whether a will exists
One heir refusing to sign an NOC can force the court route for everything.
Legal heirship certificates are issued by the tahsildar; succession certificates by the district court. Kerala Rising can explain which you need and help with the first; the second needs a lawyer.
Small amount: 6 weeks. Large amount: 6 months.
None.
Identify all heirs Get the heirship certificate Check each institution's threshold
Is nominee the same as legal heir? The bank says we need a succession certificate. Do we always?
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 10
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.