When a person passes away without a will, transferring their movable and immovable assets can become a complicated legal process. Without proper documentation identifying the legal heirs, disputes may arise regarding inheritance. To ensure a smooth transition of assets, legal tools such as succession certificates and legal heir certificates are used. While both serve the purpose of establishing heirs, they differ in scope, authority, and the type of assets they cover.
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This article explains the differences between a succession certificate and a legal heir certificate, their purpose, how to obtain them, and their legal implications.
What is a Succession Certificate?
A succession certificate is a legal document that facilitates the transfer of financial or movable assets such as:
- Bank savings
- Fixed deposits
- Shares
- Provident funds
It also enables heirs to inherit the debts and loans of the deceased. However, a succession certificate cannot be used for transferring immovable assets like real estate properties.
How to Obtain a Succession Certificate
- File a petition in the civil court or district court in the jurisdiction where the deceased resided or owned immovable property.
- Provide supporting documents, including the death certificate and PAN card of the deceased.
- Pay the court fee and publish a public notice to invite objections (if any) from others.
- If no objections are raised within 45 days, the court schedules a hearing to verify details.
- Once the claim is verified, the court issues the succession certificate.
- The entire process takes around 3 to 6 months.
The Indian Succession Act, 1925 governs the issuance of succession certificates in India.
What is a Legal Heir Certificate?
A legal heir certificate is a legal document that helps establish the relationship between the deceased and their legal heirs as per succession laws. It is commonly used for:
- Transferring immovable property
- Claiming insurance, pensions, and investments
- Conducting non-financial transactions
Unlike a succession certificate, a legal heir certificate is not governed by a central law such as the Indian Succession Act. Instead, it falls under state-specific laws.
How to Obtain a Legal Heir Certificate
- Fill out an application and submit it to the municipal corporation or local revenue department.
- Attach necessary documents, such as the death certificate of the deceased and identity proof of the heirs.
- The concerned authority will verify the relationship between the deceased and the applicants.
- If all details are correct, the office will issue the legal heir certificate.
- The process takes around 15 to 30 days.
Legal heirs can also apply online through the government portal, depending on state-specific provisions.
Key Differences Between Succession Certificate and Legal Heir Certificate
| Feature | Succession Certificate | Legal Heir Certificate |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Establishes heirs | Establishes the relationship between the deceased and legal heirs |
| Scope | Manages deceased’s debts, securities, and movable property | Transfers immovable property and is used for non-financial transactions |
| Governing Law | Indian Succession Act, 1925 | State-specific laws |
| Issuing Authority | Civil or district court | Municipal corporation or local revenue department |
| Time Taken | 3 to 6 months | 15 to 30 days |
Which Certificate Do You Need?
- If you need to claim financial assets such as bank deposits, stocks, or debts, you require a succession certificate.
- If you need to transfer property ownership, claim pensions, or settle non-financial matters, you need a legal heir certificate.
Conclusion
Both succession certificates and legal heir certificates play crucial roles in inheritance and asset transfers. While succession certificates deal with financial assets and liabilities, legal heir certificates are essential for establishing inheritance rights over immovable property.
Understanding the distinction between these two documents can help legal heirs navigate inheritance matters more efficiently and avoid unnecessary disputes. It is advisable to consult a legal expert to determine which certificate is required based on the deceased’s assets and legal requirements.
