No Will? Your Assets May Not Go Where You Want

Millions of Indian women own property, FDs, and investments but have no Will. Without one, the law — not you — decides who gets your money. Here's why every woman needs a succession plan today.

Here's what happened: Under Hindu Succession Act, a woman's self-acquired property and inherited property follow different legal heirs if she dies without a Will.. For self-acquired assets, the deceased woman's children and husband inherit first — but parents and siblings can also have a claim in certain situations.. Investments like mutual funds, FDs, and PPF without nominees can get stuck in lengthy court processes lasting months or even years..

What you should do: Write a Will today — even a simple notarised Will clearly stating who gets your bank accounts, property, jewellery, and investments is legally valid.. Update nominees on ALL financial accounts — FD, PPF, EPF, mutual funds, demat, and insurance — because a nominee is not the same as a legal heir.. If you own inherited property, consult a lawyer to understand how Hindu Succession Act applies differently to inherited vs self-acquired assets..

Pro tip: A nominee on your FD or mutual fund only holds the money temporarily — your Will determines who ultimately keeps it. Always have both.