A certificate of inheritance is a notarial document stating, among other things, who the heirs are and who is authorised to act on behalf of the estate. Banks and other organisations may ask for it before giving access to accounts or information.
What does the notary check?
The notary investigates the civil status records, the Central Wills Register, the will if one exists and the position of the heirs. If an executor has been appointed, the certificate can also record that person's authority.
The certificate does not itself divide the inheritance. It mainly proves who may act and who is involved.
Is it always required?
Not always. Sometimes a death certificate is enough, especially for simple situations or small balances. For a home, multiple heirs, a will or uncertainty about authority, a certificate is often needed.
The Inheritance Guide helps determine which organisations need which documents, so you do not request more than necessary but also do not get stuck.