In India, when a person passes away, their legal heirs—like their children, spouse, or parents—may need to get a legal heir certificate to claim the assets or benefits of the deceased. This document helps in property transfer, insurance claims, bank account settlements, and other financial matters. The good news is, you can now apply for a legal heir certificate online in many states, making the process easier and faster.

Let’s take a simple look at how you can do that, and also understand how it connects to the probate of will procedure.

What is a Legal Heir Certificate?

A legal heir certificate is a government-issued document that names the rightful heirs of a deceased person. It is used to:

• Transfer property or bank accounts
• Claim insurance or pension
• Access other benefits in the name of the deceased

This certificate is usually issued by the revenue department or municipal authorities, depending on the state.

Legal Heir Certificate Online Apply: Step-by-Step Process

You don’t need to stand in long lines or visit multiple offices. Many states in India allow you to apply for a legal heir certificate online. Here's a simple guide:

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to your state’s official e-governance portal or service website (for example, Tamil Nadu – tnesevai.tn.gov.in, Andhra Pradesh – ap.meeseva.gov.in).

Step 2: Register or Login

Create an account using your mobile number and email. If you already have an account, just log in.

Step 3: Fill in the Application

Choose “Legal Heir Certificate” from the list of services. Fill in the details like:

• Name of the deceased
• Date of death
• Relation with the deceased
• Details of all legal heirs

Step 4: Upload Documents

You will need to upload scanned copies of:

• Death certificate
• Applicant’s ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)
• Address proof
• Family member details
• Affidavit (in some cases)

Step 5: Pay the Fee

A small fee (usually ₹20 to ₹100) needs to be paid online.

Step 6: Track the Status

Once submitted, you can track the status of your application on the portal. After verification, the certificate is issued—sometimes even downloadable online.

What is Probate of Will?

If the deceased person had made a will, the process of proving and registering that will is called probate of will. This is done through a civil court and is important to ensure that the will is legally accepted.

Probate of Will Procedure

Here’s a basic idea of how the probate of will procedure works in India:

1. Filing a Petition: The executor of the will (person named to carry out the will) files a probate petition in the District Court or High Court.
2. Notice to Heirs: The court notifies all legal heirs and gives them a chance to object if they believe the will is not genuine.
3. Hearing and Proof: The court checks the will, listens to objections (if any), and verifies the signature and soundness of mind of the person who made the will.
4. Grant of Probate: If everything is in order, the court issues a probate certificate, making the will legally valid.

Probate of Will in India – Is it Necessary?

In India, probate of will is mandatory in some cases, especially if:

• The property is located in Mumbai, Chennai, or Kolkata.
• The will is made by a Hindu, Sikh, Jain, or Buddhist.

In other parts of India, probate may not be compulsory but is still advised if there could be disputes or confusion.

Legal Heir Certificate vs. Probate of Will

• Legal Heir Certificate is needed when the person dies without a will.
• Probate of Will is required when the person leaves a valid will.

In some cases, you might need both, depending on the situation and local laws.

Conclusion

Getting a legal heir certificate online is now a smooth process in many states. It saves time, avoids middlemen, and can be done from your home. If there’s a will, knowing the probate of will procedure helps make things even clearer and more legally secure.

Always check your state’s rules and talk to a legal expert if needed. But don’t worry—both these processes are manageable with the right guidance.