Understanding the grant
A grant of probate is evidence of the executor's authority to deal with the estate. Not every estate needs one: the assets, how they were owned and the requirements of the organisations holding them all matter.
When There Is a Will
Grant of Probate
If you have been named as an executor, you may need a grant of probate to deal with assets in the estate. We can help you understand whether a grant is needed and guide you through the application.
Understanding your next steps
How we can help
Preparing the application
We review the will and the position of the executors, consider the information needed about the estate and explain the application and tax steps within our agreed instructions.
Choosing the help you need
You may want assistance with obtaining the grant while handling later administration yourself. If you need wider support, we can discuss estate administration as a separate, clearly defined scope of work.
A clear way forward
What happens next
Bring the key documents
Have the original will, any codicils and the death certificate available. Bring details of the executors and correspondence from banks or other asset holders.
Build the estate picture
Information about assets, debts and relevant gifts helps establish the estate's value and tax position. We explain what further information is needed before an application can proceed.
Apply and plan the next stage
Once the necessary information and approvals are in place, we prepare the agreed application work. We explain what the grant enables and which remaining responsibilities sit with you.
Planning ahead
Fees and timescales
01 / Fees
Be clear about what is included
A grant-only quote should be distinguished from full estate administration. We explain the scope, professional fees, VAT and current application charges before you proceed, together with any work outside the quote.
02 / Timescales
Preparation and registry processing
Obtaining valuations and resolving tax matters can take time before an application is ready. Probate Registry processing is a separate stage, and enquiries or missing information may add to it.
Read our published Price Guide, then contact us to confirm the work you need and the costs involved.
View Price GuideUseful to know
Your questions, answered
Do all named executors have to apply?
Not necessarily. There are options where an executor does not wish to apply, and the consequences differ. Take advice before signing a renunciation or making a decision.
Will a photocopy of the will be enough?
The original is normally needed for the application. If it cannot be found, tell us so that we can discuss the further steps required.
Does receiving the grant complete the estate?
No. Collecting assets, settling liabilities and distributing the estate are separate tasks. We clarify which of those tasks our instructions cover.
Why does one bank require probate when another does not?
Organisations set their own requirements for releasing assets. One bank agreeing to release money does not mean another bank, investment provider or property transaction can proceed without a grant. Check each asset holder’s requirements.
Must Inheritance Tax be paid before the grant is issued?
A payment towards any Inheritance Tax due is usually needed before the grant. There may be different payment arrangements depending on the assets and circumstances. Raise any difficulty accessing funds early so the available options can be considered.
Does the will become a public document?
When the will is admitted to probate, it normally becomes part of the public probate record. Copies can be ordered through the official probate search service. That is different from a will remaining private during the person’s lifetime.
General information for England and Wales. Contact us for advice about your circumstances.
SJS Solicitors · Balham