What do I need to do before probate?

Before applying for probate, you need to estimate the estate value and complete and calculate whether you need to pay Inheritance Tax or not.

You will also need to gather together all the original documents relating to the estate, including the Will, any property deeds and savings and investment certificates.

If you are named as executor in the Will, you will need to apply for a Grant of Probate from the probate registry. This is a legal document which gives you the authority to deal with the estate.

The first step is to complete the probate application form, which you can get from the probate registry. You will need to send the completed form, along with the original Will and a death certificate, to the probate registry.

You will also need to pay a fee, which is currently £155 for estates worth more than £5,000.

The probate registry will then issue the Grant of Probate, which you will need to show to banks and other institutions in order to gain access to the estate funds.

That might all seem a little overwhelming. That’s why you can choose to pass your probate application on to an experienced legal team, such as the probate solicitors at Legacy Wills & Probate.