When a loved one passes away, they leave behind not only memories but often also material assets. In Germany, you often need a certificate of inheritance to manage or claim these assets.
But don't worry, we will guide you through this process and show you how Beglaubigung24 can help you master the formalities.
What exactly is a certificate of inheritance?
A certificate of inheritance is an official document issued by a probate court. It serves as proof of who the legal heirs are. In short, it gives you the authority to access accounts, transfer real estate, and manage other assets left behind by the deceased.
Why do you need a certificate of inheritance?
Access to bank accounts : Many banks require a certificate of inheritance to grant access to the deceased's accounts.
Transferring real estate ownership : A certificate of inheritance is often required for transferring ownership of land or real estate in the land register.
Proof of inheritance rights : It serves as legal proof of your inheritance rights 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 hire a lawyer to do it.
Document submission : You must submit certain documents, such as the death certificate and a valid identity card. If there is a will , it must also be submitted.
Affidavit : Often, an affidavit confirming the accuracy of the information is required. This also details the order of inheritance.
Fees : Fees are charged for issuing a certificate of inheritance, which depend on the value of the estate.
Get your documents translated now – at Beglaubigung24:
If documents for the certificate of inheritance are not available in German, or if you require a certified translation for the probate court, then Beglaubigung24 is your contact. We ensure that your documents are professionally translated and certified 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 a will exists and is unambiguous, 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. Generally, you can expect it to take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
How much 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.
Obtaining a certificate of inheritance may involve some bureaucratic hurdles, but it's a crucial step towards gaining access to and managing the estate. With the right information and support, such as the services offered by Beglaubigung24, you can significantly simplify this process. Order all your certified translations of necessary legal documents easily online now.
Certificate of inheritance abroad
Indeed, inheritance law and the need for a certificate of inheritance or similar document vary greatly from country to country. The way inheritance matters are handled worldwide 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 United States, there is no direct equivalent to the German certificate of inheritance. Instead, a process called "probate" is conducted, which verifies the authenticity of a will, determines the deceased's assets, and settles debts before the remaining estate is distributed to the heirs. The person executing the will (executor) receives a " Letters Testamentary " from the court, granting them similar powers to those of a German heir with a certificate of inheritance.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, a process called " probate " (similar to that in the USA) 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, a " Letters of Administration " are issued. These documents serve a similar function to the German certificate of inheritance, providing legal proof of entitlement to inherit or the right to administer the estate.
France
In France, the process is structured differently. Here, a notary often issues an " acte de notoriété ," listing the heirs and their respective shares of the inheritance. This document serves as proof of inheritance rights and is necessary to close the deceased's bank accounts or transfer real estate. The French notary plays a central role in the probate process, assisting in clarifying 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 inheritance rights.
Differences and similarities
Although the basic purpose is similar – namely, legitimizing heirs and enabling estate administration – the procedures, names, and institutions involved vary from country to country. In some countries, courts play a central role, while in others, notaries or special family registers are involved.
It is important to note that in an international context, translations and authentications of documents are often required to make them usable in other legal systems. Beglaubigung24 can help here by professionally translating and authenticating such documents to prepare them for use abroad.
No matter what international inheritance matters you are facing, it is worthwhile to seek professional advice to ensure that all formal requirements are correctly met.
