How to Claim Fixed Deposit After Death

Understanding the claim process for fixed deposits (FDs) can save your family time and stress during tough times. Learn how FD claims work in joint and single accounts, and why choosing the right FD matters
How to Claim Fixed Deposit After Death
4 mins
29-September-2025

A Fixed Deposit (FD) is one of the safest investment options, offering guaranteed returns and minimal risk. Many individuals rely on FDs not only to grow their wealth but also to ensure financial security for their loved ones.

However, if the account holder passes away before the FD matures, the process of claiming the funds depends on the account type and nomination details. Knowing these rules in advance ensures that your family can access the funds smoothly, without unnecessary delays.

You can safeguard your savings with a Bajaj Finance FD, which offers competitive interest rates, flexible tenures, and easy nomination options for your peace of mind.

Holding patterns and nominees in an FD

When opening an FD, you can choose to do it individually or jointly. Each holding pattern has its own set of rules:

  • Either or survivor: Only two holders can open this type. The institution acts on instructions from either holder, and in case of death, the survivor retains access.

  • Anyone or survivor: More than two individuals can hold this FD, and instructions from any holder are valid.

  • Former or survivor: The primary holder operates the FD; the secondary holder gains rights only after their passing.

  • Latter or survivor: The secondary holder manages the FD, while the primary holder steps in only if they pass away.

  • Joint: All account holders must sign for any transaction.

  • Jointly or survivor: Works like “Joint,” but in the event of one holder’s death, the survivor can continue.

  • Nominee: The nominee has the authority to claim the deposit and accrued interest if the FD holder passes away.

With Bajaj Finance FD, you can easily add a nominee and choose the account type that best fits your needs, ensuring your money reaches your family without complications. Check FD rates.

Fixed Deposit

  1. Trusted by over 5 lakh customers
  2. Fixed Deposits worth more than Rs. 50,000 crore booked
  3. Rated CRISIL AAA/STABLE and [ICRA]AAA(STABLE)
  4. Up to 0.35% p.a. extra interest offered for senior citizens
  5. Flexible interest payout options available - Monthly, Quarterly, Half-yearly, Annually or at Maturity

By proceeding, you agree to our Terms and Conditions

FD maturity claims after the death of the account holder

Joint accounts

  • Either or survivor: If the first holder passes away, the second holder automatically receives the FD proceeds. If the second holder passes away, their name can be replaced with another nominee.

  • Joint holding: If both holders are alive, consent from all is needed. In case of death, survivors can continue the FD.

Preserve and grow your savings with a Bajaj Finance FD, with interest rates going up to 7.30% p.a. You can grow your investment at an inflation beating pace.

Individual account

  • Single holding with nomination: Only the holder operates the account, but the nominee is authorised to claim the funds after the holder’s demise.

  • Single holding without nomination: In the absence of a nominee, legal heirs must provide documents such as a will or succession certificate to access the deposit.

To plan ahead, use the Bajaj Finance FD Calculator to estimate your returns and keep your family informed about the maturity amount.

Process to claim the fixed deposit amount

The general process for claiming FDs after the account holder’s death involves the following steps:

  1. Contact the FD provider to confirm the account type and claim procedure.

  2. Submit required documents, such as:

    • Claim form

    • Death certificate

    • Succession certificate or legal heir certificate

    • Indemnity bond (if applicable)

  3. Choose the settlement option—the nominee or heir may continue the FD until maturity or choose to liquidate it.

With Bajaj Finance FD, the claim settlement process is designed to be simple and hassle-free, ensuring quick access to funds when families need them most. Book FD.

Conclusion

Fixed deposits remain one of the most reliable financial tools for wealth preservation and growth. However, understanding the claim process is equally important to ensure your family’s financial security.

By selecting the right holding pattern, assigning a nominee, and keeping investment details accessible, you can make the process seamless for your loved ones. Pairing this planning with a Bajaj Finance FD ensures not only attractive returns but also smooth claim settlement—helping your family stay financially secure, even in unforeseen circumstances. Open FD.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the deceased FD account settlement disbursed?

The settlement of a deceased FD account is disbursed to the nominee or legal heir after providing the required documents, which may include a death certificate, identity proofs, and a claim application.

What is the time limit for settlement of claims in respect of deceased depositors?

The time limit for settlement of claims in respect of deceased depositors can vary but generally takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on the financial institution and the completeness of documentation provided.

Can I appoint more than one nominee for my FD account?

No, You can appoint only one nominee against a single FD.

Is it compulsory to appoint a nominee for FD?

It's not compulsory to appoint a nominee for an FD, but it is a recommended and prudent practice to ensure a smooth transfer of the deposit in case of the account holder's demise.

Can an FD account holder appoint a nominee if they did not do so in the beginning?

Yes, an FD account holder can appoint a nominee even if they didn't do so initially by submitting a nominee declaration form to the bank or financial institute.

Can an FD account holder change the nominee?

Yes, an FD account holder can change the nominee at any time by submitting a request and providing the necessary documentation as required by the bank.

Can I appoint my father as nominee for my FD?

Yes, you can appoint your father as the nominee for your FD account if you wish to do so.

Why should I choose Bajaj Finance FD over other options?

Bajaj Finance FD offers assured returns up to 7.30% p.a., flexible tenures from 12 to 60 months, easy nomination, and a simple claim settlement process. Open FD.

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Disclaimer

As regards deposit taking activity of Bajaj Finance Ltd (BFL), the viewers may refer to the advertisement in the Indian Express (Mumbai Edition) and Loksatta (Pune Edition) furnished in the application form for soliciting public deposits or refer https://www.bajajfinserv.in/fixed-deposit-archives
The company is having a valid Certificate of Registration dated March 5, 1998 issued by the Reserve Bank of India under section 45 IA of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. However, the RBI does not accept any responsibility or guarantee about the present position as to the financial soundness of the company or for the correctness of any of the statements or representations made or opinions expressed by the company and for repayment of deposits/discharge of the liabilities by the company.

For the FD calculator the actual returns may vary slightly if the Fixed Deposit tenure includes a leap year.