Inheritance Law · Certificate of Inheritance
Certificate of Inheritance – when you need it and what it costs
The certificate of inheritance (Erbschein) is the official document proving your status as heir – to banks, the land registry and authorities. It is not needed in every case, and the application should be well prepared.
I check whether you need a certificate at all and assist with the application and affidavit – so it is quick and error-free.
Key facts
- Proof of heir status to banks, land registry & authorities.
- Applied for at the probate court (local court) at the deceased's last residence.
- Costs depend on the estate value (court + notary fees).
- Often unnecessary with a notarial will – saving time and money.
When is a certificate needed – and when not?
Usually required
When real estate is part of the estate (land register correction), for larger bank balances without a notarial will, or when banks demand proof.
Often unnecessary
If there is a notarial will with an opening record, many bodies accept it as proof – a certificate is then often not needed.
Caution when applying
Anyone applying for a certificate thereby accepts the inheritance and can no longer disclaim it. With an unclear or over-indebted estate, have it checked first.
How the application works
Clarify jurisdiction & need
We check whether a certificate is needed and which probate court is responsible.
Compile documents
Death certificate, will, civil-status documents and estate details are prepared.
Application & affidavit
The application is filed at the probate court or notary, and the affidavit is given.
Issuance
The court issues the certificate – proving your status as heir securely.
Frequently asked questions about the certificate of inheritance
When do I need a certificate of inheritance?
Above all when real estate is part of the estate (for the land register correction) or banks demand proof of your status as heir. With a notarial will and opening record it is often not required.
What does a certificate of inheritance cost?
The costs depend on the estate value. Court fees apply for issuance and for the affidavit – higher estate values mean higher costs. I estimate the costs for you in advance.
Where do I apply for the certificate?
At the probate court – the probate division of the local court at the deceased's last residence. The application can be filed there or via a notary.
Do I accept the inheritance by applying for the certificate?
Yes. Applying for a certificate indicates that you accept the inheritance – disclaiming is then no longer possible. With an unclear estate, have it checked beforehand.
Certificate needed or not?
I clarify this for your case and handle the application – fast, complete and without unnecessary costs.