How do I obtain a Succession Certificate in Kolkata after a death?

"Navigating banks and insurance companies after losing a loved one is difficult. A Succession Certificate is often the only 'key' that unlocks movable assets like bank balances, stocks, and fixed deposits in Kolkata."

💡Easy Answer

A Succession Certificate is issued by a Civil Court to the legal heirs of a deceased person who died 'Intestate' (without a Will). In Kolkata, this certificate is required to claim 'movable' debts and securities. The process involves filing a petition in the District Judge's court where the deceased resided or where the property is located. The court will issue a public notice in a Kolkata newspaper to check for objections. If none arise after 45 days, and the court is satisfied with your claim, the certificate is granted. Note: This certificate is only for movable assets; for immovable property (land/house), you usually need a 'Letter of Administration' or a 'Legal Heir Certificate' from the Corporation/Tehsil.

🚀 What you should do

1. 1Prepare a comprehensive list of all 'Movable Assets' (Bank accounts, shares, insurance policies) including their exact values and account numbers.
2. 2Gather the 'Death Certificate' and 'Legal Heir Certificate' (usually issued by the KMC or local BDO) to prove your relationship to the deceased.
3. 3File a formal petition in the Civil Court through a lawyer; you will need to pay a 'Court Fee' which is a percentage of the total asset value.
4. 4The court will publish a 'Citation' (public notice) in local English and Bengali newspapers to invite any other claimants to come forward.
5. 5If the case is uncontested, the judge will pass an order for the grant of the certificate after verifying the identity of the heirs.
6. 6Once the certificate is issued, present the original copy to the banks or financial institutions to have the funds transferred to your name.