If you’ve recently lost a family member and need to transfer property, claim insurance, or handle legal formalities, you’ll likely need a Surviving Member Certificate (SMC). This document certifies the legal surviving members of a deceased person and is issued by the SDM (Sub-Divisional Magistrate) office in Delhi.
In this blog, we’ll explain the complete process to apply for an SMC certificate in Delhi, including required documents, online and offline steps, time duration, and helpful tips.

🧾 What is a Surviving Member Certificate (SMC)?
A Surviving Member Certificate, commonly known as an SMC, is an official document issued by the Delhi Revenue Department confirming the surviving family members after someone’s death.
It’s required for:
- Property transfer or mutation
- Bank account settlements
- Insurance and pension claims
- Legal inheritance purposes
📋 Documents Required for SMC in Delhi
Before applying for an SMC, make sure you have the following documents ready:
- Death Certificate of the deceased person (issued by MCD or NDMC).
- ID Proof of the Applicant – Aadhaar card, PAN card, Voter ID, or Passport.
- Address Proof of Applicant and Deceased – electricity bill, water bill, rent agreement, or voter ID.
- List of All Surviving Family Members – including their names, age, and relationship with the deceased.
- Self-Declaration or Affidavit confirming the accuracy of details.
- Passport-size Photographs of the applicant.
- Application Form (available online or at the SDM office).
Tip: Keep both original and self-attested copies handy for verification.
💻 How to Apply Online for SMC Certificate in Delhi
You can easily apply for a Surviving Member Certificate online through the e-District Delhi portal. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official portal: https://edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in
- Register or log in using your credentials.
- Click on “Apply for Services” → “Surviving Member Certificate.”
- Fill out the online application form carefully.
- Upload the scanned documents (death certificate, ID proofs, address proofs, etc.).
- Submit your application and note the acknowledgment number for tracking.
- Your details will be verified by the concerned SDM office.
- Once approved, you can download the SMC certificate directly from the portal.
🏢 Offline Process to Apply for SMC in Delhi
If you prefer the offline method, you can apply directly through your district SDM office:
- Visit the SDM/Tehsildar office in your area (North, South, East, or West Delhi).
- Collect the SMC application form.
- Fill it out completely and attach photocopies of required documents.
- Submit the application at the designated counter.
- Officials may conduct document verification or visit your address.
- Once verified, collect your Surviving Member Certificate from the office.
⏳ Time Required to Get SMC Certificate in Delhi
The average processing time for an SMC certificate in Delhi is:
- ✅ TAT is 15 Days (standard timeline)
- ⚡ Sometimes as quick as 7–14 days if documents are complete and verification is smooth
Processing time can vary based on district workload and verification procedures.
💰 Fees for SMC Application in Delhi
- The application fee is nominal, typically 0 (may vary by district).
- Payment can be made online via e-District portal or at the SDM office counter.
🔍 Track Your Application Status
You can track the status of your SMC application easily:
- Visit the e-District Delhi website. or Can Apply Through us Directly
- Click on “Track Your Application.”
- Enter your application/acknowledgment number.
- View the real-time status or download the certificate once approved.
🧠 Important Tips for a Smooth Application
- Ensure names and spellings in all documents match exactly.
- Keep your death certificate updated and correctly issued.
- Upload clear and legible scanned copies while applying online.
- Include all living family members in the list to avoid rejections.
- In case of any disputes or multiple claims, consult a legal expert before applying.
⚖️ Why SMC is Important
A Surviving Member Certificate plays a vital role in ensuring a smooth transfer of rights and responsibilities after someone’s death. It prevents property or financial disputes and serves as official proof of legal heirs.
Without it, institutions like banks, insurance companies, and government offices may not process claims or ownership transfers.
🏁 Final Words
Applying for a Surviving Member Certificate in Delhi is now simple and hassle-free through the e-District portal. Just collect the required documents, fill out the form online or offline, and wait for verification. Within 2–4 weeks, you’ll receive your certificate ready for use in any legal or official purpose.
For any assistance, you can visit your local SDM office or call the Delhi Government Helpline: 155305.
