When an investor passes away, their assets typically transfer to nominees or legal heirs. However, investments in products with mandatory lock-in periods, such as certain mutual funds (like ELSS) and RBI bonds, can cause delays. While some schemes like bank FDs and SCSS waive lock-ins on death, others require heirs to wait until the lock-in expires to redeem funds. This guide clarifies the rules for navigating inherited locked-in assets.