Varisu Certificate: Importance, Application Process and Documents Required

When dealing with matters of inheritance, especially in states like Tamil Nadu, a Varisu Certificate plays a crucial role. This legal document is necessary for legal heirs to claim assets such as property, bank balances, or investments of a deceased family member. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the Varisu Certificate, its application process, and its importance, especially when dealing with property and loans.

What is a Varisu Certificate?

A Varisu Certificate, also known as a legal heir certificate, is an official document that confirms the legal heirs of a deceased individual. This certificate is often required to establish the rightful claim over the deceased's assets, such as land, property, or financial holdings. Whether you are looking to transfer property ownership, close bank accounts, or apply for a loan against inherited property, a Varisu Certificate is essential.

Importance of the Varisu Certificate

1. Claiming assets: The primary purpose of the Varisu Certificate is to help heirs claim the assets and properties of the deceased.

2. Property Transfer: It is required for transferring ownership of the deceased’s immovable assets, such as land or houses, to their heirs.

3. Bank and financial claims: Banks require this certificate to release the deceased person’s funds to their heirs.

4. Legal proceedings: It is an essential document in legal processes related to inheritance and succession.

5. Loan applications: When heirs plan to use the inherited property for a loan against property, this certificate is crucial for verification by financial institutions.

Who can apply for a Varisu Certificate?

The following individuals are eligible to apply for a Varisu Certificate:

• Spouse of the deceased

• Children (son/daughter)

• Sibling (brother/sister)

• Parents (if surviving)

How to apply for a Varisu Certificate

The process of applying for a Varisu Certificate involves both online and offline methods. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Offline application process

• Visit the Tahsildar office: The legal heirs must visit the local Tahsildar’s office, as this is the authority responsible for issuing the certificate.

• Fill the application form: Obtain and fill the application form with necessary details such as the name of the deceased, relationship with the applicant, and asset details.

• Attach required documents: Submit the filled application along with essential documents like death certificate, applicant’s ID proof, and proof of relationship with the deceased.

• Verification process: The application and documents will be verified by the Tahsildar or Village Administrative Officer (VAO).

• Issuance of certificate: Upon successful verification, the Varisu Certificate will be issued, usually within 15 to 30 days.

2. Online application process

For states like Tamil Nadu, the process can be done online:

• Visit the official e-Sevai portal: Go to Tamil Nadu e-Sevai portal and register.

• Choose the service: Select the ‘Legal Heir Certificate’ service from the list.

• Fill the form: Complete the online application form with the required information.

• Upload documents: Digitally upload the required documents, such as ID proof, death certificate, and proof of relationship.

• Fee payment: Pay the nominal application fee online.

• Track the status: You can track the application status on the portal. After verification, you will receive the certificate.

Documents required for Varisu certificate application

• Death certificate of the deceased

• Applicant’s identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, voter ID)

• Proof of relationship with the deceased (birth certificate, marriage certificate)

• Address proof of the applicant

• Property-related documents (if any)

Common uses of the Varisu Certificate

1. Property and land transfers: Necessary for transferring property titles and ownership.

2. Financial accounts: Helps in claiming fixed deposits, savings accounts, or insurance benefits of the deceased.

3. Loan against property: Financial institutions often require this certificate when granting loans against inherited property.

Challenges in obtaining a Varisu certificate

1. Verification delays: The verification process can be slow, leading to delays in certificate issuance.

2. Document discrepancies: Any mismatch in documentation can result in rejection or repeated visits to government offices.

3. Legal disputes: In cases where multiple heirs claim the same assets, legal disputes can arise, delaying the process.

How to resolve issues related to the Varisu certificate

In case of disputes, the following steps can be taken:

• Approach the court: If disagreements between heirs arise, a court can intervene to decide the rightful heirs.

• Consult a lawyer: Legal advice can help navigate complexities and ensure the correct procedure is followed.

• File an appeal: If the certificate is wrongfully denied, an appeal can be filed with higher authorities.

Government initiatives for simplifying the process

Many states have introduced online services to simplify the application process. In Tamil Nadu, for example, the e-Sevai platform allows citizens to apply for the Varisu Certificate from the comfort of their homes. Such initiatives reduce the need for multiple visits to government offices and expedite the overall process.

Tips for a hassle-free application process

1. Prepare documents: Ensure all documents are in order and ready before applying.

2. Choose the right mode: Depending on your convenience, select between the online and offline application process.

3. Stay updated: Regularly check the application status online to avoid unnecessary delays.

Securing a Varisu Certificate is a vital step in managing your inheritance smoothly. Once you have the certificate, you can move forward with transferring property titles, accessing funds, or applying for loans. Ensure you follow the right process and have all necessary documents in place to avoid delays.