A legal heir certificate, issued by the Tehsildar or revenue authority, identifies the legal heirs of a deceased person and is used for pensions, dues, utility transfers and government records. For transferring debts and securities such as bank deposits and shares, institutions often require a succession certificate granted by a civil court under the Indian Succession Act, 1925.
Legal heir certificate process
- Apply to Tehsildar or online state portal.
- Submit death certificate and family details.
- Local verification.
- Certificate issued.
Succession certificate
File petition in civil court with asset details; court fee depends on value; notice is published before grant.
Documents
- Death certificate
- IDs and address proofs of heirs
- Relationship proofs
- Affidavit
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Check with the institution: many banks accept nomination or legal heir documents for small amounts, but insist on succession certificates for larger sums.
Frequently asked questions
Is a legal heir certificate needed if there is a will?
Executors act under the will; probate may be needed depending on circumstances.
How long does it take?
Legal heir certificates take weeks; succession certificates take months.
Does nomination make the nominee the owner?
Nominees generally hold assets as trustees for legal heirs, subject to specific laws.
Can heirs apply online?
Many states offer online applications.
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