Disclaimer
Each State/UT in India prescribes its own widow certificate form, eligibility conditions, supporting documents, fee structure, competent authority, and procedure.
What Is a Widow Certificate
A Widow Certificate is an official document issued by the State/UT Government certifying that a woman's husband has died and that she is legally recognised as a widow.
It is commonly required for:
- Widow pension and social welfare schemes
- Compassionate appointment benefits
- Transfer of family pension and service benefits.
- Educational concessions for children
- Property, succession, and administrative records
Issuing authority typically includes the SDM / Tehsildar / Revenue Officer / District Magistrate, depending on the state.
Key Points You Should Know
- It is a state-specific certificate.
- Issued only after the death of the husband is registered.
- Formats, portals, fees, and timelines vary across states/UTs.
- Often required along with death certificate and marriage proof.
How to Apply for a Widow Certificate
Online Method (Available in Many States)
- Visit your State e-District / Citizen Services portal
- Register/Login as a citizen.
- Select Widow Certificate / Widow Pension Certificate / Legal Status Certificate (name may vary).
- Fill in applicant and deceased husband details.
- Upload required documents.
- Pay fee (if applicable).
- Submit application and note acknowledgement number.
- Track status and download certificate once approved.
Offline Method
- Visit SDM / Tehsildar / Revenue Office / CSC.
- Collect the state-specific widow certificate application form.
- Submit filled form with documents.
- Obtain acknowledgement slip.
- Collect the certificate after verification.
Commonly Required Documents
(Exact list varies by state)
- Death certificate of husband
- Marriage certificate or proof of marriage
- Identity proof of widow
- Residence proof
- Passport-size photographs
- Self-declaration / affidavit
State-Wise Overview (Indicative)
| State / UT | Official Portal | Online | Offline | Fee (Approx.) | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | https://edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in | Yes | Yes | Free | ~14–21 days |
| Uttar Pradesh | https://edistrict.up.gov.in | Yes | Yes | ₹20–₹30 | ~15–30 days |
| Maharashtra | https://aaplesarkar.maha.gov.in | Yes | Yes | Free | ~15–30 days |
| Bihar | https://serviceonline.bihar.gov.in | Yes | Yes | Free | ~10–15 days |
| Rajasthan | https://emitra.rajasthan.gov.in | Yes | Yes | ₹40–₹60 | ~15–30 days |
| Other States | State e-District portals | Yes | Yes | ₹10–₹100 | 7–30 days |
Applicants must always verify current fees and timelines on their respective official state portals.
FAQs – Widow Certificate
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1. Is widow certificate mandatory for pension schemes?
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Yes. It is commonly required to access widow pension and welfare benefits.
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2. Can I apply online from another city?
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Yes, if your state portal supports online services.
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3. Is marriage certificate compulsory?
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In most states, yes. Alternate proof may be accepted where marriage certificate is unavailable.
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4. Can a remarried woman get a widow certificate?
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Generally, no. Eligibility is linked to widow status at the time of application.
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5. Is Aadhaar mandatory?
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Often required, but some states accept alternate government ID.
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6. Is a digital widow certificate legally valid?
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Yes. Digitally signed certificates issued through official portals are legally valid.
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