My Sister passed away of a sudden and she had a little daughter of 6 years , my brother-in-law is chain drinker and he want all the money left by my sister , whereas we want to secure that money for the bright future of my niece. My Mother aged 73 is nominee of my sister andgot some amount for her office after she [assed away we want to Secure that money in some FD so that my no-one except my niece should get that once she attain the age of 17-18 so that the money can be utilised by her for higher studies or marrige . Pls. suggest

Ans: Given your situation, it's essential to ensure the safety and growth of your savings while also addressing your personal challenges. Here's a suggested approach:

Certified Financial Planner (CFP): Consult a trusted CFP to assess your current financial situation and create a tailored investment plan considering your goals and risk tolerance.

Diversify Investments: Avoid putting all your savings with your brother. Diversify across various asset classes like equity, debt, and real estate to reduce risk.

Mutual Funds: Continue investing in mutual funds for long-term growth. Choose diversified equity funds and debt funds based on your risk profile.

Emergency Fund: Set aside an emergency fund equivalent to 6-12 months' expenses in a liquid fund for unexpected expenses.

Personal Well-being: Address your personal challenges like drinking by seeking professional help or counseling. Your well-being is crucial for making sound financial decisions.

Legal and Documentation: Ensure all investments and transactions are documented properly to safeguard your interests.

Review and Monitor: Regularly review your investments and make necessary adjustments based on performance and changing goals.

By following this approach, you can aim for steady growth of your savings while also addressing personal challenges and ensuring financial security for your kids.

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