A legal heir certificate is a document that identifies the legal heirs of a deceased relative, indicating those individuals who can claim the property and assets after demise. In Tamil Nadu, this certificate is also famous by the name 'Varisu certificate.'

One can follow either an online process or an offline one to collect this. Both processes are explained in brief below, along with the required documents and eligibility list. Let's start with how to get a legal heir certificate in Tamil Nadu.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a legal heir certificate online in Tamil Nadu. Make sure you do not miss out on any point to avoid unnecessary delay and rejection:

Step 1: First, visit the e-sevai site to apply for Varisu Certificate in Tamil Nadu.

Step 2: If you are visiting this site for the first time, you have to register yourself and log in using your credentials.

Step 3: It will redirect you to a new page where you will find an application for a legal heir certificate. Fill every required column by providing details like your name, deceased's name, address, phone number, Aadhaar card details, etc.

Step 4: Once you complete filing, submit your application with the supporting documents for further processing.

Step 5: This certificate will then go to your Tehsildar or Revenue officer of your district to check if there is any discrepancy. If no issue arises in this verification process, your request will get approved.

If you do not want to apply for a Varisu certificate online, you can also choose to apply for it in person. Check for the process below.

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The following is an offline procedure to apply for a legal heir certificate in Tamil Nadu:

Step 1: Go to the Tehsildar office of your district and receive an application form for the legal heir certificate.

Step 2: Provide all the required information mentioned in this form and submit it in the office along with the necessary documents.

Step 3: You may also have to get the VAO signature and seal in the presence of all legal heirs.

Step 4: This application then reaches your Revenue inspector for further verification. If he/she approves your request, your application passes down to Tehsildar.

Step 5: If your Tehsildar approves your request, too, a token number is issued to you, allowing you to get your legal heir certificate in Tamil Nadu.

The following are the documents required for a legal heir certificate in Tamil Nadu that you need to furnish to the officials along with your application form:

• Ration card
• Aadhaar card
• Voter ID
• Address and identity proof
• Deceased's death certificate
• Date of birth proof
• A self-undertaking document or affidavit

Individuals having the following direct relationship with the deceased are eligible to get a legal heirship certificate in Tamil Nadu:

• Spouse
• Siblings
• Children
• Parents

The State Government also allows you to check the status of your application, so when it gets ready, you can download the Varisu certificate in Tamil Nadu:

Step 1: Log in to the official E-service portal of Tamil Nadu.

Step 2: You can find a 'Service' option on the left-hand side corner. Click on it and select 'Legal Heir.'

Step 3: A pop up will appear on the screen where you must click on the 'Check Status' option.

Step 4: It will show you 'Approved' if the certificate is ready.

To download a legal heir certificate in Tamil Nadu, you need to follow the below steps:

Step 1: Once the certificate is 'Approved' in the E-district portal of Tamil Nadu, locate the print option available at the bottom of the dialogue box.

Step 2: Click on it to download the certificate online.

In the case of the sudden demise of a property owner who does not have a will, its family members have to apply for a legal heir certificate in Tamil Nadu to claim the heirship. It is crucial since there are many cases of false claims, and this certificate establishes a legitimate relationship between the deceased and their successors. The purposes are as follows:

• Sanctioning family pension
• Claiming gratuity, provident fund, an insurance benefit, etc.,
• Transferring essential documents like electricity bills, phone connection, etc.,
• Gaining employment appointments based on compassion
• Transferring investment and deposit