When a loved one passes away, they not only leave behind memories, but often also material assets. In Germany, you often need a certificate of inheritance in order to administer or claim these.
But don't worry, we'll guide you through this process and show you how Beglaubigung24 can help you master the formalities.
What is a certificate of inheritance anyway?
A certificate of inheritance is an official document issued by a probate court. It serves as proof of who the rightful heirs are. In short, it opens the door for you to access accounts, transfer property and manage other assets left by the deceased.
Why do you need a certificate of inheritance?
Access to bank accounts: Many banks require a certificate of inheritance in order to grant access to the deceased's accounts.
Transferring real estate: A certificate of inheritance is often required to transfer land or property in the land register.
Proof of entitlement to inherit: It serves as legal proof of your right to inherit to third parties.
How do you obtain a certificate of inheritance?
Application to the probate court: The certificate of inheritance must be applied for at the probate court. You can do this yourself or instruct a lawyer.
Presentation of documents: You must present certain documents, such as the death certificate and a valid identity card. If there is a will, this must also be presented.
Affidavit: An affidavit is often required to confirm the accuracy of the information provided. This also sets out the order of succession.
Fees: Fees are charged for the issue of a certificate of inheritance, depending on the value of the estate.
Have your documents translated now – at Beglaubigung24:
If documents for the certificate of inheritance are not available in German or you need a certified translation for the probate court, Beglaubigung24 is your point of contact. We will ensure that your documents are professionally translated and notarized so that nothing stands in the way of your application.
Frequently asked questions about the certificate of inheritance and the inheritance certificate procedure
Does everyone need a certificate of inheritance?
A certificate of inheritance is not always necessary. For example, if there is a will and it is clear, it can often be dispensed with. However, banks and other institutions often require such proof.
How long does the exhibition last?
The duration can vary depending on the workload of the probate court and the completeness of your documents. As a rule, you can expect a few weeks to several months.
What does a certificate of inheritance cost?
The costs depend on the value of the estate. The higher the value, the higher the fee. The relevant probate court can provide you with precise information on this.
Obtaining a certificate of inheritance may involve some bureaucratic hurdles, but it is an important step in gaining access to the estate and managing it. With the right information and support, such as through the services of Beglaubigung24, you can make this process much easier. Order all certified translations of all necessary legal documents easily online now.
Certificate of inheritance abroad
In fact, inheritance law and the need for a certificate of inheritance or similar document varies greatly from country to country. The way inheritance matters are handled around the world often reflects cultural, legal and historical differences.
Let's take a look at some examples of how different countries handle inheritance issues and what alternatives exist to the German certificate of inheritance.
United States
In the USA, there is no direct equivalent to the German certificate of inheritance. Instead, a process called probate is carried out to confirm the authenticity of a will, determine the deceased's assets and pay debts before the remaining assets are distributed to the heirs. The person who executes the will (executor) receives a "Letters Testamentary" from the court, which gives them similar powers to a German heir with a certificate of inheritance.
United Kingdom
In the UK, a process calledProbate(similar to the US) is carried out when someone dies with a Will. The key difference is that the person responsible for administering the estate receives a Grant of Probate from the court. If there is no will, aLetters of Administrationwill be issued. These documents perform similar functions to the German certificate of inheritance in that they provide legal proof of entitlement to inherit or authorization to administer the estate.
France
In France, the process is structured differently. Here, an "acte de notoriété" is often issued by the notary, which lists the heirs and their inheritance shares. This document serves as proof of entitlement to inherit and is necessary to close the deceased's bank accounts or transfer real estate. The French notary plays a central role in the inheritance process and helps to clarify the order of succession and the distribution of the estate.
Japan
Japan has a unique system in which a "Koseki" (family register) plays a central role. The koseki documents important events in a person's life, including birth, marriage and death. In the event of inheritance, a "Sōzoku Shōmeisho" (certificate of inheritance) is issued based on the information recorded in the koseki. This document serves as official proof of entitlement to inherit.
Differences and similarities
Although the basic purpose is similar - namely to legitimize the heirs and enable the administration of the estate - the procedures, names and institutions involved vary from country to country. In some countries, courts play a central role, in others notaries or special family registers.
It is important to note that in an international context, translations and notarizations of documents are often required to make them usable in other legal systems. This is where Beglaubigung24 can help by having such documents professionally translated and notarized to prepare them for use abroad.
No matter what international inheritance issues you are facing, it is worth taking professional advice to ensure that all formal requirements are correctly met.
