How do I claim my mother's post office savings and NSC after her death?
All post office savings schemes — the savings account, recurring and time deposits, NSC, KVP, the monthly income scheme and the senior citizens' scheme — follow one set of rules. A nominee claims on the death certificate, the passbook or certificate, and their KYC. Without a nominee, the legal heirs claim up to five lakh rupees on an affidavit, indemnity and letter of disclaimer, and need a succession certificate above that.
The nominee route
Submit the post office's claim form for a deceased depositor at the branch holding the account, with the death certificate, the original passbook or certificates, and the nominee's identity, address and bank proof. The amount, with interest to the date of payment under the scheme's rules, is paid to the nominee's account and the account or certificate is closed.
Without a nominee
Under the Government Savings Promotion General Rules, a claim up to five lakh rupees is settled by the postmaster against an affidavit of heirship, a letter of disclaimer from the other legal heirs, and an indemnity bond — or against a legal heir certificate. Above five lakh, a succession certificate, probate or letters of administration is required. The threshold has been raised more than once, so confirm the current figure.
Certificates such as NSC and KVP held in physical form must be produced. If they are lost, the post office issues a duplicate against an indemnity before the claim can proceed, which adds time.
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Last reviewed 2026-08-31. This is general information, not legal advice. Institution requirements change — confirm before you file.