Applying for Probate
How do I apply for probate?
Complete form PA1P online or by post, value the estate, submit inheritance tax forms (IHT205 or IHT400), and pay £273 fee. You'll take an oath confirming information is true. Grant of Probate arrives in 8-12 weeks. DIY costs £273 vs £2,000+ for solicitor. Needed if estate over £5,000 or deceased owned property. For comprehensive coverage of the full UK probate process, see our complete guide to probate in the UK.
- Do you need probate? Required if estate worth over £5,000, or if the deceased owned property or significant assets
- Who applies: Executor named in the will (or next of kin if no will)
- Cost: £300 application fee + £1.50 per extra copy (DIY) vs £2,000+ solicitor fees
- Timeline: 8-12 weeks from submission to receiving Grant of Probate
- Documents needed: Original will, death certificate, IHT forms (IHT205 or IHT400), PA1P application form
Have more questions on UK death administration? Let Farra help.
Step-by-step probate application
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
- Original will and any codicils
- Original death certificate
- Completed inheritance tax forms (IHT205 or IHT400)
- PA1P application form
- List of assets and debts
Step 2: Complete Application Forms
Fill out form PA1P online or on paper. The form asks about the deceased, the executor, and the estate value. Take your time and double-check all details.
Step 3: Pay Fees and Submit
Pay the £273 application fee plus £1.50 for each additional copy you need. Submit everything to the probate registry by post or online.
Step 4: Take the Oath
You'll be invited to swear an oath that the information is true. This can be done at a probate registry office or with a solicitor.
Probate Application Checklist
Before You Apply
- Gather all required documents (will, death certificate, asset details)
- Get professional valuations for property and significant assets
- Complete and submit inheritance tax forms (IHT205 or IHT400)
Application Process
- Complete form PA1P accurately and thoroughly
- Pay application fee (£273) and copy fees (£1.50 each)
- Submit application online or by post to probate registry
- Attend oath appointment or arrange with solicitor
The process takes time
Probate applications typically take 8-12 weeks to process, sometimes longer if there are complications. For a detailed walkthrough of the entire probate timeline, read our full UK probate process guide. Be patient and don't hesitate to contact the probate registry if you have concerns.
Once you receive the Grant of Probate, you have the legal authority to deal with the estate and can begin distributing assets to beneficiaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get probate in the UK?
Probate applications typically take 8-12 weeks to process from submission to receiving the Grant of Probate. This timeline can be longer if there are complications with the application, missing documents, or if the estate is particularly complex.
How much does probate cost in the UK?
The probate application fee is £273 for estates worth over £5,000. You'll also pay £1.50 for each additional certified copy of the Grant of Probate you need. If you use a solicitor, their fees typically range from 1-5% of the estate value plus VAT.
Do I always need probate when someone dies?
No, probate isn't always required. You typically don't need probate if the estate is worth less than £5,000, all assets were jointly owned and pass by survivorship, or all assets had nominated beneficiaries. Banks and other institutions set their own thresholds for releasing funds without probate.
Can I apply for probate myself without a solicitor?
Yes, you can apply for probate yourself without using a solicitor. The process involves completing form PA1P, submitting inheritance tax forms, and providing the original will and death certificate. Many people successfully handle straightforward estates themselves, though complex estates may benefit from professional help.
What documents do I need to apply for probate?
You need the original will and any codicils, the original death certificate, completed inheritance tax forms (IHT205 or IHT400), form PA1P, and a detailed list of all assets and debts. You'll also need to pay the £273 application fee.
What happens after probate is granted?
Once you receive the Grant of Probate, you have legal authority to collect the deceased's assets, pay any debts and taxes, and distribute the remaining estate to beneficiaries according to the will. You should send certified copies of the Grant to banks, insurance companies, and other asset holders.
Related Guides
Probate Checklist
Not sure if you need probate? Use this guide to understand the process and gather everything you'll need.
Do I Need Probate? UK Thresholds £5K-£50K (Free Checker 2026)
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What Documents Do I Need for Probate? Complete UK Checklist
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Estate Administration Checklist: Complete UK Guide for Executors
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