What is a Net Worth Certificate: Format, Documents Required, Benefits, How to Get It?

When applying for a loan from a financial institution, all individuals and entities have to undergo an evaluation of their financial standing. In this process, the financial institutions require a comprehensive overview of the assets and liabilities held by the borrower at that specific moment. This comprehensive overview is widely known as a Net Worth Certificate.

In this article, we will walk you through a comprehensive guide on a Net Worth Certificate and all the other associated details you need to know. 

What is a Net Worth Certificate? 

A net worth certificate is a financial document offering a comprehensive overview of an individual’s or company’s financial status. After analysing the book of accounts and other records, this certificate outlines all assets and liabilities. 

The net worth certificate is certified by a chartered accountant (CA). The financial data within this certificate is precise and reliable, as it complies with standard accounting principles. It serves as a benchmark for evaluating the financial health of an entity.

Why is a Net Worth Certificate Required? 

The net worth certificate is a crucial document that can be required at multiple stages. Several financial institutions often require individuals or entities to submit a net worth certificate when applying for loans or credit facilities. Financial institutions like banks often need this document to understand the assets and liabilities of the concerned party. 

This certificate is required to assess the applicant’s repayment capability, which is determined by subtracting the total liabilities from the total assets. Moreover, certain regulatory bodies may also require this certificate to verify the entity's compliance with financial regulations.

Who Can Certify Net Worth? 

Given that a net worth certificate is generally required for official and legal matters like loan applications, significant business deals, or regulatory compliance, this document must include verified financial data. For this reason, this document is certified by a Chartered Accountant, who adds credibility to the detailed financial data present in it. 

How to Make a Net Worth Certificate?

Follow the steps given below to obtain a net worth certificate:

Step 1: Find a qualified Chartered Accountant who can prepare a net worth certificate.

Step 2: Gather all the documents required for assessing your assets and liabilities and submit them to your CA. Before submitting the documents, make sure that all financial records are accurate and up-to-date.

Step 3: Your CA will review your financial information and verify its accuracy.

Step 4: The CA will prepare and certify your net worth certificate upon successful verification. 

Net Worth Certificate Format for Individual 

The net worth certificate for individuals generally contains his/her personal financial standing. It puts key emphasis on the individual’s assets, such as investments, property, savings and personal belongings, against liabilities like loans and personal debt. Such net worth certificates are commonly used for personal purposes such as divorce proceedings, obtaining loans and financial planning. 

Is a Net Worth Certificate Required for a VISA? 

Besides legal matters, a net worth certificate may sometimes be required for visa applications. However, it differs from country to country and is based on individual cases. Generally, this certificate helps determine whether the individual seeking a long-term visa has the financial means to support themselves throughout their visit to a foreign country. 

Also, when you want to invest in a new country or establish a business, the business visa requirements may include submitting a net worth certificate. To assess whether applicants possess the financial stability required for a long-term stay in the country, they must disclose all their assets and liabilities for inclusion in the net worth certificate for their visa application.

Net Worth Certificate Format

In India, net worth certificate generation is a streamlined process only CAs can execute. They must certify the financial documents and approve their validity. The certificate is simple, but the focus must be on getting the financial details right. The format of a standard net worth certificate is as follows:

Documents Required for Net Worth Certificate

You need to submit the following documents to obtain a net worth certificate: 

• Personal Documents 
  • Proof of Identity (PAN card, Aadhar card, driving license, Voter ID card, or Passport) 
  • Proof of Address (Passbook, Income Tax Returns (ITR), electricity bill or property tax bill) 
  • Contact Information (Email ID and phone number) 
• Financial Documents 
  • Income Statement - Outlining income and expenses incurred during a specified period, highlighting the overall financial performance 
  • Balance Sheet - Providing a comprehensive and accurate overview of assets and liabilities 
  • Bank Statement - Tracking all financial transactions, such as deposits and withdrawals over the last 12 months 
  • Property Documents - Including deeds, mortgage details, tax receipts or any other document related to any owned property, serving as an asset verification 
  • Investment Records - Highlighting the current worth of all investments such as mutual funds, stocks, bonds or any other investment securities 
  • Loan Documentation - Including loan agreement, payment records, and other relevant documentation that provides a comprehensive account of liabilities
  • Tax Returns - Providing a comprehensive overview of income and tax obligation during a specified timeframe

Net Worth Certificate Charges

The charges applicable for preparing a net worth certificate vary, depending on factors such as the specific requirements of the certification process and the expertise of the CA. Getting your net worth certificate validated by a top CA expert in India could cost you more. However, all certified CAs are eligible to validate a net worth certificate.

Benefits of Net Worth Certificate

There are several benefits of holding a net worth certificate, some of which you can find below: 

• As a means of evaluating creditworthiness, this certificate assists financial institutions in assessing borrowers’ ability to repay their debts.
• A net worth certificate ensures compliance with financial regulations since the certificate provides credibility for financial stability.
• A net worth certificate is needed in legal proceedings, such as bankruptcy, divorce settlements, inheritance disputes, or other legal cases, as it provides an overview of the individual’s or entity's financial stability and helps in fair decision-making.
• A net worth certificate helps in case of crucial investment decisions, such as partnership deals or significant investments, as it provides a clear financial snapshot of the overall business health.
• Companies require this certificate in case of acquisitions and mergers. Calculating your company's net worth can help you change its business strategy and determine resource allocation.
• A net worth certificate can assure the transparency and credibility of a company about its financial stability for the stakeholders. 
• Certain countries require an individual or company's net worth certificate to evaluate immigration status.
• A net worth certificate facilitates fair and informed decision-making by providing a clear and certified overview of an individual's or entity's financial status.
• When used for personal purposes, it is a crucial tool, helping individuals assess their financial progress and plan for retirement.

Now that you understand what a net worth certificate is and its purpose, you can easily obtain it whenever required. However, it is in your best interest to consult with a Chartered Accountant when preparing a net worth certificate to ensure accuracy and compliance.