How long does estate administration take in the UK?

Simple estates can be administered in 6 to 12 months. Complex estates with property or disputes can take several years.

What is an executor account?

An executor account is a dedicated bank account opened in the name of the estate to receive and distribute estate funds.

Do executors get paid in the UK?

Executors are not automatically paid unless the will specifically provides for it, though they can claim reasonable expenses.

Estate Administration Checklist

Administering an estate involves dozens of tasks over many months. This comprehensive checklist helps executors in the UK track every step from the day of death to final distribution.

Week 1: Immediate tasks

☐ Secure the deceased's property
☐ Locate the will
☐ Register the death within 5 days
☐ Order 5-10 death certificates
☐ Use Tell Us Once to notify government departments
☐ Arrange the funeral

Month 1: Early administration

☐ Open an executor bank account
☐ Redirect mail from the deceased's address
☐ Notify HMRC of the death
☐ Begin asset identification – banks, investments, property
☐ Apply for probate or letters of administration
☐ Calculate if inheritance tax is due

Months 2-4: Asset collection

☐ Receive grant of probate
☐ Notify all banks and financial institutions
☐ Collect funds from accounts
☐ Value and sell property if needed
☐ Cash in investments
☐ Claim any life insurance

Months 4-6: Paying debts and taxes

☐ Pay inheritance tax (if applicable)
☐ Settle outstanding debts
☐ File the deceased's final tax return
☐ Pay any income tax owed by the estate

Months 6-12: Distribution

☐ Prepare estate accounts
☐ Distribute assets to beneficiaries
☐ Transfer property ownership
☐ Close the executor account
☐ Keep records for 12 years

How SafeKept helps

SafeKept provides a digital checklist that updates as you mark notifications complete and log responses. Everything stays in one place - no more spreadsheets or paper lists. No more spreadsheets or paper lists.