How to Apply for Probate

Applying for probate can seem daunting, but it's a process that many people handle themselves without legal help. First, make sure you understand what probate is and whether you need it. Here's a practical guide to the process.

Before you apply

You need to:

• Register the death and get copies of the death certificate (you'll need several)
• Find the original will
• Value the estate - you'll need to know what everything is worth
• Identify all assets and debts
• Work out if inheritance tax is due

Valuing the estate

You need to establish the value of:

• Property - get an estate agent valuation
• Bank accounts - ask banks for date-of-death balances
• Investments - get valuations from providers
• Personal possessions - be realistic, most aren't worth much
• Any money owed to the deceased

Also identify all debts including mortgages, loans, credit cards, and outstanding bills.

Inheritance tax forms

You must complete inheritance tax forms even if no tax is due. Most estates use the simpler forms (IHT205 or the online equivalent) if the estate is below the threshold and straightforward. Complex or high-value estates need the full IHT400 form.

The probate application

You can apply:

• Online: Through the government's Apply for Probate service (quickest)
• By post: Using form PA1P (if there's a will) or PA1A (if there's no will)

What happens next

1. You'll need to swear or affirm that the information is true
2. Submit the original will (you'll get it back)
3. Pay the probate fee (currently £273 for estates over £5,000)
4. Wait for the grant - usually 4-8 weeks
5. Once you have the grant, you can start collecting assets and paying debts. You'll also need to prepare estate accounts

Do you need a solicitor?

Many people handle straightforward probates themselves. Consider getting help if the estate is complex, there's inheritance tax to pay, or there are disputes or complications. Our Probate Directory lists useful contacts.