Apply for a certificate of inheritance
How to prepare the application for the probate court.
Updated: May 4, 2026 · Updated
Who can apply?
Heirs, co-heirs and in some cases executors or estate administrators can apply. A community of heirs may need a joint certificate or a partial certificate.
Before applying, the claimed inheritance share should be clear. The court checks the details and can request evidence of succession.
| Case | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Sole heir | One heir applies for a sole-heir certificate. |
| Community of heirs | Several heirs apply jointly or request partial proof. |
| Will | The court checks whether the will proves succession. |
Process at the probate court
The application is recorded by the probate court or submitted through a notary. It includes details about the deceased person, succession and possible further heirs.
In many cases the applicant must affirm the accuracy of the information. Missing or incorrect details can delay the application.
Common mistakes
Applications often stall because birth, marriage or divorce records are missing. A will should be submitted completely.
If a bank or land registry office accepts simpler proof, the certificate may be unnecessary. Clarify this before applying.
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