Surviving Member Certificate - Online and Offline Application

A Survival member certificate (also known as a surviving family member certificate) is issued by the State Revenue Department. It serves as proof that a legal heir has the right to receive the properties and privileges left behind by their dead relative. According to the Indian Succession Act, of 1925, this document helps establish a person’s relationship with the deceased and avoids complications and hurdles which could be faced during inheritance. This document is extremely important for the heirs of the deceased to claim pension, insurance cover , provident fund , etc.

• Purpose: A surviving member certificate ensures that pensions, insurance, PFs and other assets are smoothly transferred to the legal heir.
• Eligibility: Under The Hindu Succession Act, of 1952, the surviving member certificate is issued to Class I legal heirs.
• Documents required: Personal identification like an Aadhar Card, Voter ID, passport-size photographs and a few more necessary documents along with a duly filled-in application form are required.
• How to apply: One can apply for the certificate online as well as offline conveniently.

Also read: Migration Certificate - A Comprehensive Guide

A surviving member certificate can be obtained under the following circumstances.

• Citizenship: Any Indian citizen can apply.
• Legal heir status: The applicant must have the legal status of a Class-I heir as per the Hindu Succession Act, 1925. A Class I heir includes immediate family members like a spouse, children or parents who are given priority over other relatives in inheritance.
• Alternate eligibility: If there is no Class I heir then other family members can apply for this certificate under the Act.

Following are some of the most important uses of a surviving member certificate.

• Identify surviving members: The certificate is used to identify the names of the surviving members of the person who has passed away.
• Affirmation of relationship: The certificate helps establish the relationship between the surviving members and the deceased.
• Transfer of assets and properties: The surviving family member certificate helps in facilitating the transfer of assets and properties to the rightful heirs.
• Access benefits: The certificate helps transfer the deceased's pension, insurance, retirement, and other benefits to the legal heirs.
• Claim outstanding dues: It helps the legal heirs claim outstanding dues such as gratuity, salary arrears, and provident funds.
• Manage financial accounts: It also enables the transfer of bank accounts, mutual funds, and fixed deposits in the name of the legal heirs.

Whether you apply for a surviving member certificate online or offline, here are a few documents you will need to submit:

• Application form: Fill out the application form with all the correct details and sign it.
• Death certificate of the deceased: You will require a copy of the death certificate of the deceased individual issued by the concerned authority.
• Self-declaration affidavit: You will also need to submit an affidavit describing your relation to the deceased.
• PAN card: A copy of the applicant's PAN card.
• Voter ID card: A copy of the applicant's Voter ID card.
• Driving licence: A copy of the applicant's driving licence.
• Aadhaar card: A copy of the applicant's Aadhaar card.
• Passport: A copy of the applicant's passport.
• Passport-sized photograph: A recent passport-size photograph of the applicant.
• Other documents: Any other documents issued by the authorities concerned which may be required for the application.

Also read: Everything You Need To Know About Income Certificate India

Each state has a dedicated portal where you can apply for the surviving member certificate online. Please note that while the online application steps are generally consistent across portals, they may vary slightly due to differing state requirements. Residents of Delhi can apply online for a surviving member certificate through the e-District portal. Here's how you can apply:

• Log in to the website: Log in to Delhi e-District Portal.
• Upload the documents: Upload the required documents and photographs on the website.
• Affidavit: You need to upload a scanned copy of your original self-declaration form.
• Submit hard copy: You may submit the self-declaration form in person or via mail to the local SDM or Tehsildar office with the application or acknowledgement number.
• Physical verification: Officials may call you for physical verification of documents.
• Get the certificate: Once verified, an SMS or email will be sent to the registered mobile number or email ID. You may then proceed to the municipality or Tehsildar office for collecting the surviving member certificate.

The below steps must be followed when applying for a surviving family member certificate offline:

Get the application form

Collect the application form from the local municipal office or Tehsildar.

Fill out the form

Provide the correct details while filling out and signing this form. The following information should be provided:

• Full name of the applicant
• Relationship between the dead person and the claimant
• Names of other living relatives
• Particulars about deceased persons (e.g., name, date of death etc.)
• Residential address with contact number

Enclose supporting documents

Attach these documents along with the application form by arranging them in the following order –

• Demise record of decedent
• Affidavit on self-declaration relationship to deceased
• PAN card or any other identity proof (Aadhaar card, Voter ID card etc.)
• Utility bills as address proofs
• Passport size photographs
• Any more relevant records issued by the concerned authority

Submit the form

Duly filled-in papers have to be handed over along with required certificates to the concerned authorities i.e. usually Tehsildar/Municipality establishment.

Authorised verification

After the submission, one representative from the court/ revenue department will visit your place for verification purposes. They shall confirm your relationship with the deceased with two neighbours acting as witnesses.

Get the certificate

Upon completion of the verification process combined with authentication, you shall receive your Survivorship Membership Certificate. This can be obtained from the Municipal Office or Tehsildar office. Also read: Succession Certificate

The certificate is issued only after thorough verification. Here’s how the process works:

Verification process

The concerned official will visit the applicant's residence and verify the submitted information with the neighbours or local authorities. The official will ensure that the information in the application matches the ground reality.

Approval notification

An SMS or email notifying you about the approval will be sent to the registered mobile number or email ID once the verification is completed.

Certificate collection

The applicant can then collect the surviving family member certificate from the municipality or Tehsildar office. In some cases, the certificate can be mailed to the applicant’s registered address. Also read: EBC Certificate - A Comprehensive Guide

The surviving member certificate ensures rightful access to inheritance and is a must-have for all eligible individuals. This is a vital document that assures that assets are passed on smoothly. With our step-by-step guide, you can apply with confidence and assure yourself of your inheritance. Despite the different requirements by different states, being well-prepared with all the documents will make things easier, so make sure you check for the specifics of your state. Secure your family's future today with the surviving member certificate and complement your financial planning with the comprehensive insurance products offered by Aditya Birla Capital.