Legal Heir vs Succession Certificate: Which One You Need

Legal heir certificate (Tehsildar, 15-30 days) unlocks pension, PF, gratuity and govt dues — not bank deposits or shares

Succession certificate (civil court, 3-6 months) is what banks and depositories demand for the deceased's money and securities

Court fee on a succession certificate is ad valorem — roughly 2-3% of asset value, varying by state

A nominee is only a trustee; the legal heirs are the real owners of the money

If there's a registered will, you may need probate or letters of administration instead