Is writing a will necessary if we have a nominee for a fixed deposit investment?

Jaya, a hardworking woman in her 40s, recently invested some amount of money in a fixed deposit. She believed appointing a nominee for her investment would be sufficient for a smooth transfer of assets after her demise. However, doubts began to creep into her mind as she wondered, “Is writing a will necessary, or appointing a nominee will be enough for her fixed deposit investments?” 

Seeking answers, Jaya reached out to LXME to understand the importance of will writing and the challenges associated with relying solely on a nominee. 

Why fear when the LXME Money Coach is here? 

Let’s help Jaya with her questions!!

Planning for the future is essential for a woman, especially when it comes to the distribution of their assets after their unfortunate demise. It’s crucial to understand the significance of nominating someone and writing a will to ensure a smooth transition of your belongings. In this blog, we will explore the role of a nominee, the importance of a will, and how these measures can help avoid disputes among legal heirs.

What is the role of the nominee in fixed deposit investment?

A nominee is a person you have chosen and nominated to receive your assets after your demise. The nominee serves as a custodian (someone who is responsible for protecting or managing assets or belongings on behalf of others) of your assets and can be anyone you trust, including legal heirs or any other individual of your choice. 

If the nominee happens to be a legal heir, then they automatically become the owner of the  assets as well. However, if the nominee is not a legal heir and no will has been written, disputes may arise after the asset holder’s death. 

Although a nominee may hold the assets, it’s crucial to understand that they are not the rightful owners. Legal heirs are the true owners of the assets, while the nominee acts as a trustee or custodian. Understanding this difference is crucial to avoid any misconceptions regarding asset ownership. If you intend to transfer your assets to someone other than a legal heir, it becomes extremely important to write a will. 

What is a will?

A will is a legal document, which ensures that the wishes of a person with respect to their assets and property are followed after their death. 

When you have a will in place before you die, you formally mention the persons to whom your assets, including investments, are to be endowed. A will supersedes(replaces/overrules) all other claims and that is the importance of a will.

Overcoming conflicts with a will –

Writing a will in addition to appointing a nominee can help address any conflicts that may arise. A will is a legally binding document that explicitly outlines your wishes regarding the distribution of your assets. 

By clearly specifying who should inherit your fixed deposit investments, you leave no room for confusion among the legal heirs. 

Getting the will registered is very important to establish its legal validity and prevent any disputes or challenges regarding its authenticity. It provides a formal record and ensures that your wishes are legally recognized, offering peace of mind and clarity for your loved ones. 

Having a nominee for your fixed deposit investment is undoubtedly a step in the right direction. However, a will provides a comprehensive solution for the distribution of your assets beyond just fixed deposit investments and also clears the doubts on ownership of assets without creating chaos amongst the legal heirs. 

By combining the appointment of a nominee with a well-drafted will, you can create a  plan for the seamless transfer of your estate.

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