How to Apply for Probate in the UK

Probate is the legal process of proving a will is valid and giving the executor authority to deal with the estate. If you have been named as an executor, this guide explains how to apply for probate in England and Wales step by step.

What is probate and when do you need it

A grant of probate is a legal document issued by the Probate Registry that confirms you have the authority to administer the estate. You typically need probate if the deceased owned property, had more than £5,000 in a bank account, or held shares or investments.

Documents you will need

• The original will (and any codicils)
• The death certificate
• Details of all assets and their values
• Details of any debts
• Inheritance Tax form (IHT205 or IHT400)

How to apply

You can apply for probate online through the HMCTS probate service at gov.uk. The online process is straightforward and guides you through each step. Alternatively, you can apply by post using form PA1P if there is a will or PA1A if there is no will.

Fees

There is no fee for estates valued at £5,000 or less. For estates above this threshold, the probate application fee is £273. You can order additional sealed copies of the grant for £1.50 each – order plenty as many institutions require an original.

After probate is granted

Once you receive the grant of probate, you can legally access the deceased's bank accounts, sell property, and distribute assets to beneficiaries. Send a copy of the grant to each institution along with your notification letter.

How SafeKept helps

SafeKept helps you track your probate application status and manage the notification process once probate is granted. Upload your grant of probate to your secure vault and attach it to notifications sent to banks and other institutions.