What happens if you don’t add a nominee in mutual funds or insurance
By Vidhi Verma, ET Online |
1/5
What is a nomination and why is it important?
A nominee is the person legally entitled to claim your investments in case of death. Without a nomination, your loved ones may face delays, paperwork, and legal battles to access your money. Most mutual funds and insurance policies offer a simple way to add a nominee, but many investors still skip this step.
2/5
SEBI’s nomination mandate for mutual funds
SEBI has made it compulsory for mutual fund investors to either add a nominee or formally opt out through a declaration. If you fail to act, your folio may be blocked for new transactions or redemptions. While deadlines have been extended multiple times, non-compliance can cause future complications.
3/5
Skipping nomination in insurance?
If you don’t nominate anyone in your life insurance policy, the payout doesn’t automatically go to your family. Instead, it must go to your legal heirs and this often involves court procedures, succession certificates, and delays. In the case of term insurance, it could mean financial stress for your dependents.
Amazon Top Deals
POWERED BY

Crompton Ozone 75 Litres Desert Air Cooler for home | Large & Easy Clean Ice Chamber | 4-Way Air Deflection | High Density Honeycomb Pads | Everlast Pump | Auto Fill| 3 Year Brand Warranty
₹9,798Buy Now43%
OFF

atomberg Studio Smart+ 1200mm BLDC Ceiling Fan with IoT & Remote | BEE 5 star Rated Energy Efficient Ceiling Fan | High Air Delivery with LED Indicators | 3 Year Warranty (Earth Brown)
₹5,903Buy Now36%
OFF

LG 32 L Convection Microwave Oven (MC3286BRUM, Black, 360° Motorised Rotisserie for Bar-be-queing, 301 Auto Cook Menu, Stainless steel cavity, Indian Cuisine, Tandoor Se, Steam Clean & Diet Fry)
₹19,340Buy Now19%
OFF
4/5
Legal troubles for heirs when no nominee is named
Without a nominee, your heirs may need to furnish legal documents like a will, probate, or succession certificate to access the money. This can take weeks or months, and comes with court fees and notary requirements.
5/5
How to add or change a nominee easily
For mutual funds, platforms like CAMS and KFintech let you update or add nominees online using e-sign or OTP. Insurance companies also allow changes via their website or through your insurance advisor. Make sure your nominee’s details are accurate, updated, and reflect your current intentions.