My father had put his brother as a nominee in all his Bank FD. Unfortunately, he died last month. But naturally, all the FD proceeds will go to his brother. However, he wants to give that money to me and my brother. Should we wait for the proceeds to be given to his brother (our uncle) and then he will transfer it to us or should we get it done now? what will be tax implications

Ans: There is no inheritance tax in India on the assets that one inherits. However, when a person dies intestate, the income shall be taxable in the hands of legal representatives (in this case you and your brother) after the date of distribution of the income.

Since the person has passed away without a will, all legal heirs (you and your brother) are entitled to get an equal share of his shares and mutual fund units. For this you will need to submit few documents.

It is a good idea for you to approach the respective financial institution for their process of transmission and you can follow it accordingly.

Ans: Hello, the amount will not be taxable

Ans: Technically the nominee has the full right to the asset , but if you think you deserve a share legally then you can contest his nomination in court

Ans: I understand the complexity and sensitivity of your situation. It's good that you are thinking ahead and seeking clarity. Let's discuss the nuances of this issue from a legal and financial perspective, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what may happen and how you can prepare.

Understanding Nominee Rights in Fixed Deposits
Firstly, let's understand the role of a nominee in a fixed deposit. A nominee is the person appointed to receive the funds in the event of the account holder's demise. However, being a nominee doesn't mean you own the funds outright. Legally, you act as a trustee or caretaker of the funds for the legal heirs.

Legal Rights and Heirship
The legal heirs have a right to claim the assets of the deceased as per the inheritance laws applicable. In the absence of a clear mention in the will about the fixed deposit, your father-in-law's estate, including the FD, would typically be distributed according to the laws of intestate succession, which may vary depending on the personal law applicable to your family.

The Role of the Will
Your father-in-law's will plays a crucial role here. If the will specifies the distribution of other assets but does not mention the FD, this can lead to ambiguity. Verbal assurances, while meaningful within the family, may not hold legal weight in court. It's essential to have clear, written instructions in the will regarding the FD to avoid potential disputes.

Potential Claims from Legal Heirs
Since your father-in-law has three sons, including your husband, the other sons (your brothers-in-law) may have a legal claim to the FD, especially if it is not explicitly mentioned in the will. The fact that your father-in-law has already gifted a significant asset to the elder son may play a role in family discussions but may not necessarily influence legal proceedings unless stated in the will.

Steps to Ensure Your Rights
Here are some steps you can take to safeguard your interests:

1. Discuss with Your Father-in-Law
Have a candid conversation with your father-in-law about explicitly mentioning the FD in the will. This will help clarify his intentions and reduce the risk of disputes.

2. Update the Will
Encourage your father-in-law to update his will to include specific instructions regarding the FD. This could state that the FD should be bequeathed to you, the nominee, ensuring his verbal wishes are legally documented.

3. Legal Consultation
Consult with a legal expert specializing in inheritance and estate planning. They can provide tailored advice and ensure the will and other documents are correctly drafted and legally binding.

4. Open Communication
Maintain open communication with your husband and, if possible, with the other family members. Transparency can help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts after your father-in-law's passing.

Understanding the Impact of the Gift to the Elder Son
The fact that your father-in-law has already gifted a floor worth Rs. 1.5 crores to his elder son may be significant. Here’s why:

Documentation: Ensure that the gift is well-documented and legally transferred. This can support your claim that the FD was intended for you, balancing the distribution of assets.
Family Agreement: Discuss this with the family, emphasizing that your father-in-law has tried to distribute his assets fairly, considering the significant gift already given to the elder son.
Legal Perspective on Verbal Communications
Verbal communications and intentions, while morally significant, often do not hold up in legal proceedings unless supported by written evidence. Therefore, it’s crucial to have these intentions clearly documented in the will.

Importance of Being the Nominee
As the nominee, you are initially responsible for receiving the funds. However, this doesn’t give you ownership rights over the FD. It is still crucial to establish your father-in-law's intention legally to ensure you retain control over the funds.

Financial Planning and Management
Once the legalities are sorted, managing the FD becomes important. Here’s how you can approach it:

1. Financial Goals
Align the FD with your financial goals. Whether it's for emergencies, education, or future investments, plan accordingly.

2. Reinvestment Options
Consider reinvestment options that offer good returns while ensuring safety and liquidity. Fixed deposits can be renewed, or you might explore other conservative investment options.

3. Tax Implications
Be aware of the tax implications of inheriting the FD. Consult with a financial planner or tax advisor to optimize your tax liabilities.

Final Insights
It's commendable that you are taking care of your father-in-law and thinking ahead about financial matters. Ensuring that his intentions are legally documented will help avoid potential disputes and provide clarity. Here's a summary of steps you should take:

Discuss with Your Father-in-Law: Have a conversation about updating the will to include the FD.
Update the Will: Ensure the FD is explicitly mentioned, reflecting your father-in-law's intentions.
Consult a Legal Expert: Get professional advice to ensure the will is legally sound.
Maintain Open Communication: Keep transparent communication with family members to avoid conflicts.
Plan Financially: Align the FD with your financial goals and consider tax implications.
Taking these steps will help secure your interests and ensure your father-in-law's wishes are honored.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

Ans: Losing a loved one is always difficult. Managing financial matters requires careful attention. Below is a detailed plan to handle your father’s accounts and investments.

1. Managing Savings Accounts
Check for nominee details on all savings accounts.

If your mother is the nominee, the process is straightforward.

Submit the following documents to the bank:

Death certificate of your father.
Nominee’s identity proof and address proof.
Bank account details of the nominee for fund transfer.
The bank will verify documents and transfer funds to the nominee’s account.

If no nominee is registered, the bank will request legal heir documents.

A succession certificate may be required.
Apply through the district court for this certificate.
2. Handling Fixed Deposits (FDs)
Joint Holder FDs:
If the FD is jointly held with “either or survivor” clause, your mother can access it directly.
Submit the death certificate and a simple application to continue or withdraw the FD.
Nominee FDs:
If your mother is the nominee, submit her identity proof and the death certificate.
The funds will be transferred to her account.
FDs Without Nominee:
For such cases, the legal heir process will apply.
Obtain a succession certificate for claiming the funds.
3. Managing the Jointly Owned Flat
The flat is jointly owned by your parents.

Your mother automatically inherits your father’s share.

To update ownership records:

Submit your father’s death certificate to the housing society.
Request a name transfer form from the society.
For legal ownership transfer:

Update property records with the sub-registrar’s office.
Submit the death certificate and joint ownership documents.
Discuss with your sister to ensure no future disputes.

4. Creating an Investment Plan for Your Mother
Assessing Current Funds:
Consolidate all proceeds from your father’s accounts and FDs.
Include the savings, FDs, and other assets your mother holds.
Identifying Financial Goals:
Prioritise safety and liquidity for your mother’s needs.
Create provisions for emergencies and regular income.
Suggested Investments:
Invest in a mix of debt and balanced mutual funds for stability.
Include senior citizen savings schemes for guaranteed returns.
Ensure liquidity by keeping some funds in fixed deposits or liquid funds.
5. Family Consent and Legal Safeguards
Discuss all financial matters openly with your sister.

Take written consent from family members before major decisions.

Create a will for your mother to avoid future complications.

Include all assets and their intended distribution in the will.

6. Tax Implications and Planning
Consult a Certified Financial Planner to manage taxes efficiently.

Interest income from FDs and mutual funds will be taxable.

Plan investments under Section 80C and 80D to save tax.

Keep track of long-term and short-term capital gains taxation.

7. Building a Comprehensive Financial Plan
Ensure your mother has adequate health and life insurance.

Set aside emergency funds for unforeseen expenses.

Regularly review investments for optimal performance.

Diversify funds to reduce risks and maintain steady returns.

8. Educating Your Family on Financial Matters
Involve your family in understanding financial procedures.

Teach them the importance of nominations and joint accounts.

Create a list of all assets and liabilities for easy reference.

Share this list with your spouse and trusted family members.

Final Insights
Handling your father’s hard-earned money requires care and responsibility. Following the correct procedures ensures smooth transitions. Create a robust financial plan to protect and grow these funds for your family’s future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment