I need a succession certificate to access inherited assets

Banks and financial institutions require a civil court order before releasing funds or investments held in a deceased person's name. We manage the full process.

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What a succession certificate covers, and what it doesn't

A succession certificate is issued by a civil court and authorises legal heirs to claim movable assets left by a deceased person.
It is required for funds held in savings accounts and fixed deposits, equities, government bonds and mutual funds, post office savings, and pension funds.
It does not cover immovable property such as land or buildings. Those require a separate transfer process.
The certificate is issued by the District Judge in whose jurisdiction the assets are held, or where the deceased lived. If there are multiple beneficiaries, a joint certificate is issued.
There is generally no time limit on when you can apply. A petition can usually be filed at any time.

How we get the certificate for you

1
We prepare the petition
We file the application specifying your name, your relationship to the deceased, and the names of all Class 1 legal heirs, whether or not they are making a claim.
2
We attach the required documents
We include the death certificate and all supporting documents, including the original will if one exists.
3
We manage the court process
The court notifies all parties and allows time for objections. We represent your interests at every stage.
4
We obtain the certificate
If no valid objection is raised, the court grants the certificate. We manage any indemnity bond or surety requirements before it is finalised.
5
We coordinate with the bank or institution
Once the certificate is in hand, we work directly with the bank or financial institution so your assets are released correctly.

What you'll need to get started

Death certificate of the deceased

Bank passbooks, account statements or financial documents showing the assets

PAN card and identity documents for all legal heirs

Original will, if one exists

Names and details of all Class 1 legal heirs, whether or not they are claiming assets

If original bank documents are not in your possession, they can be formally summoned in court from the relevant institution. Do not let missing paperwork stop you from starting.

Other inheritance matters we handle

Title due diligence on my inherited property
Help me transfer my inherited property
Help me partition my share
Accessing inherited bank funds

Your succession certificate questions, answered

What is the difference between a legal heir certificate and a succession certificate?

A legal heir certificate recognises who the lawful successors are. A succession certificate both recognises the heirs and authorises them to claim the movable assets. Banks generally require the latter.

Can daughters claim movable assets from a parent's estate?

Yes, unless the deceased left a will that specifically excludes them from their self-acquired assets. Under natural succession, daughters have full rights.

Is there a deadline for applying?

Generally no. A petition for a succession certificate can usually be filed at any time.

How long does the process take?

It depends on the specific case and the court's own timeline, but it is often around a year or more from the date of filing. We give you a realistic estimate for your matter.

Are there costs beyond the legal fees?

Yes. Court fees are payable on the value of the assets being claimed. The amount varies by state and is a mandatory requirement.

Worth reading

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