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Power reserved means an executor steps back for now but preserves their right to act later. It is recorded on the Grant of Probate. They are not liable while not acting. If needed later, they can apply to be joined in the administration. It is the middle ground between acting and renouncing.
When a will names multiple executors, they are not all required to apply for probate together. One (or more) may wish to step back — perhaps because they are temporarily unable to commit time, live overseas, or simply prefer to let another executor take the lead.
Rather than renouncing permanently, they may choose to have power reserved. This means:
Power reserved is one of two options for a non-acting executor — the other being renunciation. For a comparison, see our guide on renouncing executorship and our guide on whether you can refuse to be an executor.
| Feature | Power Reserved | Renunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Permanence | Provisional — can join later | Permanent — cannot act later |
| Current liability | None while not acting | None (discharged permanently) |
| Recorded on grant | Yes — named on grant | Not named on grant |
| Can change mind | Yes — apply to be joined | Only with court leave |
| Form required | No separate form | Form PA15 required |
When the acting executor(s) apply for probate using Form PA1P, they indicate on the form that another named executor is not joining the application and that power is to be reserved to them. The Probate Registry notes this on the Grant of Probate — the grant will say something like "with power reserved to [Name]".
No separate form is required from the non-acting executor, though it is good practice to have them provide a written confirmation that they understand and agree to the power reserved arrangement.
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If a co-executor who has power reserved later wishes to join the administration — for example, because the acting executor has become ill, or because a dispute has arisen that requires their input — they must apply to the Probate Registry for what is sometimes called a "further grant". This is not a new grant of probate; it is an order joining them in the existing administration.
The practical effect is that future decisions require the agreement of both executors. This can create complications if the administration is well advanced, so it is worth thinking carefully about whether joining later is genuinely necessary. For complex situations, seek legal advice.
Power reserved works well when:
Power reserved is less appropriate where the non-acting executor definitively does not want to be involved at all — in that case, renunciation is cleaner for everyone.
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