Understanding the purpose and need for a possession certificate is crucial. In this article, we will be breaking down the intricacies of obtaining and downloading a possession certificate in Kerala.
What Is a Possession Certificate?
A possession certificate is a government-issued document that serves as an official ownership declaration about a property. In this document, the seller discloses the specifics of the property in question.
Who Issues a Possession Certificate?
In rural areas, it is normally issued by the Tahsildar’s office. On the other hand, the RDO is in charge of issuing possession certificates in metropolitan areas.
Importance of a Possession Certificate
A possession certificate is a legal document that establishes who owns or possesses a specific property and is transferred from the seller to the buyer at the time of transfer of possession. It is the basis upon which a property is included in the revenue records. It is also one of the documents required to obtain a loan from a financial institution.
Need for a Possession Certificate in Kerala
A possession certificate is necessary for property owners in Kerala
- To apply for a home loan
- To show the exact date of Possession of a Property.
- To add a property to the State’s revenue records
- For obtaining Government subsidies
- To show proof of residence
- For availing l government schemes related to housing
Documents Required to Procure a Possession Certificate in Kerala
- Ownership proof for the property in question
- Certificate of encumbrance
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar Online Document, PAN, driver’s license, voter’s ID or passport
- Proof of having paid the applicable Land Tax for the property
- Copy of the owner’s voter’s ID
How to Get a Possession Certificate in Kerala?
Through Akshaya Center
- Visit the Akshaya Center closest to you
- Ask for an application form for a possession certificate from the center
- Fill in the details for the online form with help from staff at the center
- Once you have filled in all the details, click on Submit
- Next, upload all the necessary supporting documents
- If the application has been successfully submitted, the applicant will receive an acknowledgement via text to their registered mobile number
- Make sure you note down this number, for future references
- Once the verification process is complete by the Tehsildar’s office, they will issue the certificate by attaching their DSC to it and authenticating it.
Through Online Portal
- Visit the official E-District Portal of the Kerala Government: https://edistrict.kerala.gov.in/
- Register onto the platform by going to the ‘User registration tab’.
- Next, fill in all the required details, choose the appropriate login credentials and click on ‘Save and Submit’.
- You must also choose a suitable password recovery question and answer to proceed.
- Once the registration is complete, log into the account using your credentials to avail of the facility to apply for the possession certificate.
- Log in and head to the ‘One-Time Registration Tab’.
- Fill in all the required details and click on ‘Duplicate’.
- Finally, click on ‘Submit’ to register yourself completely.
- On the application form, fill in all the required details such as name, type of certificate and so on.
- You must now upload all the supporting documents in the form of PDFs, ensuring that each is less than 100 KB in size.
- Once you are done uploading all the documents, pay the required fees through their online payment portal.
- Fees may be paid via Debit card/Credit card/Wallets/IMPS/Net banking and cash-card format.
- Once the payment is processed, you will receive an acknowledgement receipt. Note down the acknowledgement number for future references.
Apply Offline for Possession Certificate in Kerala
Step 1: Visit the Village Office or Akshaya Centre
Head to the Village Office or the nearest Akshaya Centre in your area. These are designated locations where you can initiate the process of obtaining a Possession Certificate.
Step 2: Obtain and Fill out the Application Form
Request the Possession Certificate Application Form from the office. Complete the form with accurate details, ensuring that all necessary information is provided to facilitate the application process.
Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents
Compile the required supporting documents as specified in the application guidelines. These may include proof of ownership, identification documents, and any other relevant paperwork necessary to substantiate your request.
Step 4: Submit Application and Documents
Hand in the completed Possession Certificate Application Form along with the supporting documents to the staff at the Village Office or Akshaya Centre. Ensure that all information is accurate and that you have included all necessary paperwork for a smooth processing experience.
How to Download a Possession Certificate Online in Kerala
- Once the application is submitted, it usually takes around a week for it to get processed.
- After successful verification and authentication, the applicant will receive an SMS on their registered phone number regarding their application.
- Once you get a confirmation message, visit the same Akshaya Center from where you applied.
- Take help from staff at the center and then download the certificate after searching for it using the acknowledgement number received earlier.
- Once you have downloaded the certificate.
Time Taken to Obtain a Possession Certificate in Kerala
The entire process of getting a possession certificate takes about seven working days. In case of long delays, an applicant can also visit the Tehlsildar’s office and follow-up.
Fees for Obtaining a Possession Certificate in Kerala
- Fees payable while applying through the Akshaya Center
- Fees applicable while applying through the online e-District Portal
- Fee for all applicants is ₹15
| Category of People | Applicable Fee |
| Families belonging to the SC/ST category | ₹12 |
| Families belonging to the BPL category | ₹20 |
| Families belonging to all other categories | ₹28 |
How to Check Possession Certificate Status in Kerala
- Visit the official e-District Portal
- From the homepage, go to the ‘Transaction History’ tab
- Choose the appropriate Dates and then click ‘Go’ to view Status
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a specific timeline for processing and issuing Possession Certificates in Kerala, and are there expedited options available?
The processing time for Possession Certificates in Kerala varies, but expedited options may be available. For specific timelines, applicants should inquire at the issuing office. Expedited services, if offered, may involve additional fees.
Can individuals check the status of their Possession Certificate application online, and what steps should be taken if there are delays or issues?
Yes, applicants can check the status of their Possession Certificate online. In case of delays, individuals should contact the issuing authority or use the online portal for updates and resolution.
Are there fees or charges associated with obtaining a Possession Certificate, and how is the payment process conducted?
Fees are associated with obtaining a Possession Certificate in Kerala. The payment process typically involves submitting the required fees along with the application form, and details can be obtained from the issuing office.
Can a Possession Certificate be transferred or used for multiple properties owned by the same individual in Kerala?
A Possession Certificate is property-specific and generally cannot be transferred for use on multiple properties owned by the same individual in Kerala. Each property requires a separate Possession Certificate.
How does the Possession Certificate contribute to property transactions and legal processes in Kerala?
The Possession Certificate plays a crucial role in property transactions in Kerala by validating ownership and possession. It is a legal document that aids in property-related legal processes, offering clarity and authenticity in real estate dealings.
Are there specific circumstances or conditions under which a Possession Certificate may be denied or revoked, and what are the implications for property owners?
Possession Certificates may be denied or revoked under specific circumstances, such as incomplete documentation or discrepancies. Implications for property owners include delays in legal processes and potential hindrances in property transactions.
If there are discrepancies or errors in the information provided in the Possession Certificate, what steps should property owners take to rectify them?
If discrepancies or errors are identified in the Possession Certificate, property owners should promptly contact the issuing authority. The corrective process may involve submitting additional documents or information to rectify inaccuracies.
How does the Possession Certificate contribute to property tax assessments, and are there any tax implications for property owners?
Possession Certificates contribute to property tax assessments by providing proof of possession and ownership. While possessing a Possession Certificate is not a direct tax implication, it is a crucial document for accurate property tax assessments in Kerala.
