IOB launches online death claim portal: Here’s how families can use it
Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) has introduced an online death-claim settlement portal that lets nominees and legal heirs submit claims for deposit accounts, fixed deposits and related holdings digitally. For claims up to ₹15 lakh the bank says it will waive the third-party surety requirement and aims to process such claims within 15 days. This guide explains what the portal does, who can use it, what documents you’ll need, step-by-step instructions to file and track a claim, timelines, common problems and practical tips for families coping with a loss.
1. Why this matters (short context)
When a family member dies, dealing with banking formalities — locating account details, arranging nomination/legal heir paperwork, getting branch visits and sureties done — is emotionally and logistically painful. The new online portal aims to reduce physical visits, speed up settlements for modest claims (≤ ₹15 lakh), and bring transparency through online tracking. That can mean faster access to funds for funeral expenses, immediate bills and family support.
2. Who can use the portal?
Broadly, the portal supports two claimant categories:
Nominee (if the deceased had nominated someone): The nominated person can file the claim and — after verification — receive settlement per the nomination and bank rules.
Legal heirs / representatives (if no valid nomination, or where legal heirs must claim): Family members or court-appointed representatives may file. The portal accommodates “claim by legal heirs” workflows and will indicate if additional documentation or branch visits are required.
Eligibility points to keep in mind:
The portal is for deposit accounts, fixed deposits, safe deposit locker items and similar customer holdings with IOB. Insurance policies or third-party products administered by insurers may follow separate insurer claim rules.
For claims up to ₹15 lakh, IOB says third-party surety is not required, simplifying the process. For claims above ₹15 lakh or complex cases (disputes, multiple claimants), additional verification or sureties may still be needed.
3. Documents you will normally need
Exact requirements vary by case (nomination present/absent, claim amount, type of account). Typical documents requested on the portal include:
Death certificate (issued by municipal authority/competent authority).
Account details of the deceased (account number, passbook copy, FD receipt if any).
Claimant’s identity (Aadhaar, PAN, passport, voter ID, driving licence — depending on what’s accepted).
Claimant’s address proof (if not on Aadhaar).
Proof of relationship (where required) — e.g., family register, affidavit, succession certificate or legal heir certificate (for some non-nomination claims).
Nomination document copy (if available) or bank mandate showing nominee.
Cancelled cheque of claimant (for payout via NEFT) or bank mandate for transfer.
Succession certificate / probate / will — only in contested or large/special cases; the portal will indicate when legal documents are required.
KYC documents for the claimant (if the claimant is not already KYC’ed with IOB).
Any other supporting documents the branch may ask for during verification.
Tip: Keep scanned copies (PDF or clear images) of the above before you start the application. Use readable, dated scans — fuzzy or partial images slow processing.
4. Step-by-step: Filing a new death claim on the portal
Below is a practical walkthrough based on the bank’s portal layout and published guidance.
Open the portal: Visit https://digital.iob.bank.in/deathclaimonline (or the IOB Deceased Claims page) and click New Claim. The portal also has a “Track Claim” option for status checks.
Choose claim type: Select whether the claim is with nomination or without nomination / claim by legal heirs.
Enter basic details: Provide your mobile number, Aadhaar number (or other ID), name and details of the deceased (account number/UDRN or other identifier). You may be asked to enter captcha and agree to terms.
Upload documents: Follow the portal prompts to upload the death certificate, ID proofs, account evidence (passbook/FD receipt), nomination proof (if any), and any other requested files. Make sure file formats and size restrictions are followed.
Declare relationship / legal status: State whether you are the nominee, next of kin, legal heir, or legal representative. If multiple heirs are claiming, specify shares or attach an agreement if available.
Submit & get reference number: After submission you will receive an on-screen claim reference number and an email/SMS acknowledgment. Note this number — it’s used for tracking. The portal also displays the branch to which the claim has been assigned and the timeline (usually 15 days for eligible claims).
Follow branch verification instructions: For many claims (even if filed online) the bank requires the claimant to submit originals or certified copies at the assigned branch within the stipulated timeframe. The portal acknowledgement will state whether an in-branch visit is needed and by when.
Track status: Use the portal’s “Track Claim” feature and your reference number to view progress or see any queries raised by the branch. The portal may let you upload additional documents if the branch requests them online.
Note: The portal workflow aims to complete simpler claims end-to-end online; more complex or high-value claims will route to branch for additional due diligence.
5. Timelines: what to expect
Claims up to ₹15 lakh: Bank commits to processing within 15 days from submission, provided required documents are submitted correctly and there are no disputes. The portal’s acknowledgment typically mentions the 15-day timeline and the branch where documents must be produced (if originals are required).
Claims above ₹15 lakh or disputed cases: Timelines will vary. These may involve legal heir certificates, succession certificates or court orders and take longer depending on legal complexity.
Tracking and updates: Use the portal reference number to check status and respond promptly to any queries — delays in uploading required documents or visiting the branch can slow settlement.
6. What “no third-party surety up to ₹15 lakh” means
Historically, some banks asked family members to provide third-party sureties or indemnity bonds for settling claims where nomination was absent or documents were incomplete. IOB’s stated policy for claims up to ₹15 lakh removes that barrier — meaning the claimant does not have to bring an unrelated guarantor to the branch in most routine cases. This eases the logistical burden on grieving families. However, bank reserves the right to ask for documentary proof of identity/relationship and may still require branch verification.
7. Nomination vs legal-heir claims — practical differences
Nomination present: Nominee’s claim pathway is typically simpler. The nominee must prove identity, present the death certificate and account evidence; the bank will settle as per the nomination after completing KYC and checks.
No nomination / multiple claimants: The bank will require proof of entitlement among legal heirs. This can be:
Mutual family settlement signed by heirs, OR
Legal heir certificate (issued by municipal authorities or revenue offices), OR
Succession certificate / probate (in contested or high-value cases).
The portal allows claim by legal heirs but may channel these to branch for physical verification.
8. After submission: verification, payout and closure
Branch verification: Even when you file online, the assigned branch performs identity checks, verifies originals (when required) and confirms account details. Portals typically require submission of originals within a fixed time window (e.g., 15 days) after online filing.
Payout: If documents are in order, funds are disbursed to the claimant’s bank account (NEFT/IMPS) or credited to an IOB account as per the claimant’s instruction. If multiple heirs are to share proceeds, the bank will execute disbursement only after receiving a joint settlement schedule or legal order.
Closure & communication: The portal and bank will provide an acknowledgment and remittance advice. Keep all receipts, reference numbers and email/SMS confirmations until the matter is closed.
9. Common issues and how to avoid them
Issue: Poor quality scans or missing fields on the death certificate.
Fix: Use clear, full-page scans; ensure the issuing authority’s seal, date and signature are visible.
Issue: Claim stuck because the branch asked for additional documents.
Fix: Monitor portal messages closely; upload requested docs promptly and visit the branch within the given deadline.
Issue: Multiple family members contest the claim.
Fix: Consider obtaining a legal heir certificate or getting a mutual settlement deed notarized; if unresolved, approach court for a succession certificate.
Issue: Name mismatch between Aadhaar and bank records.
Fix: Bring supporting ID documents explaining variations (marriage certificate, Gazette, affidavit) and regularize KYC with branch.
10. Practical checklist before you start (copy/save)
Scanned copy of death certificate (good resolution)
Deceased’s account number / FD receipts / passbook copy
Claimant’s Aadhaar copy (or other ID and address proof)
Cancelled cheque of claimant or bank mandate for payout
Nomination copy (if available)
Family relationship proof (if required) — birth/marriage certificate or affidavit
Contact mobile number and email for communications
Printer/pen if branch visit required for signatures/affidavits
11. Privacy & security considerations
Use a secure network when uploading documents. Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive uploads.
Verify the portal URL matches the bank’s official domain (digital.iob.bank.in or links from iob.bank.in), and check for HTTPS. The portal also contains help/FAQ pages and contact numbers for assistance.
Keep copies of all the documents you upload and note the claim reference number. If you think someone is misusing your documents or identity call the banks customer service numbers. File a complaint.
12. When to contact the bank branch or what to do next
If the portal says “Query raised by branch” follow the instructions. Upload more documents or visit the assigned branch.
If you do not get a response within the given timeline for example 15 days for claims take the next steps.
First contact the assigned branch with your claim reference number.
If the issue is still not resolved, call the IOB customer care numbers listed on the banks website.
As a resort use the banks grievance redressal process or approach the banking ombudsman if the bank does not follow the timelines. Keep a record of all your communications.
13. Examples of how the portal works in real-life scenarios
Scenario A. Nominee with a small FD of ₹2 lakh: The nominee files online uploads the required documents and receives a reference ID. The nominee then visits the branch with the documents. The bank settles the claim within 15 days.
Scenario B. No nomination, multiple heirs and an FD of ₹10 lakh: The heirs file a claim online and upload the necessary documents. The bank processes the claim after verifying with the branch. No third-party surety is required because the claim is than ₹15 lakh.
Scenario C. High-value. Dispute of ₹25 lakh: The online filing triggers a review by the branch and additional legal documents are required. The timeline for settlement is longer.
14. Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I file a death claim from outside India?
A: Yes you can file a claim online from anywhere. You may need to show original documents or notarized copies at the Indian branch.
Q: What if the nominee is a
A: A guardian or representative will need to file the claim on their behalf and provide the necessary documents.
Q: Is there a fee to file a claim?
A: Banks usually do not charge a fee for filing a death claim. You may need to pay for certified copies or notary services.
Q: Can I withdraw my claim after submitting it?
A: Contact the assigned branch or customer care with your reference number to know the procedure.
15. Useful links
IOB Deceased Claims assistance page.
IOB Online Death Claim Settlement Portal.
Business Standard article about the launch of the portal.
Economic Times explainer on the benefits of the facility.
IOB SOP document for steps.
16. Final tips for families
Get ready before you need it: Keep copies of bank documents and nomination details in a place.
Make sure to nominate and update nominations: This makes the settlement process simpler.
Use e-KYC and be digitally ready: Linking your mobile and Aadhaar can speed up the claim process.
Stay organized: Keep all your claim reference numbers and documents in one place. These steps can reduce stress during a time.
IOBs online death-claim portal is a step towards making the process simpler, for families. By allowing submissions and online tracking the bank aims to reduce delays. Families should be prepared to submit documents and follow the portals instructions to ensure timely settlement.
