When You Don't Need Probate
When do I not need probate?
Probate not needed if: small estates under bank thresholds (£5,000-£50,000), joint assets passing automatically to survivor, life insurance/pensions with named beneficiaries, or assets in trust. Still needed for sole property, estates exceeding thresholds, disputes, or foreign assets.
- Small estates: Banks release without probate if under threshold (£5,000-£50,000)
- Joint assets: Property/accounts as joint tenants pass automatically
- Nominated beneficiaries: Life insurance, pensions bypass estate
- Bank thresholds: Barclays/HSBC/Lloyds £50K, NatWest £25K, Santander £50K
- Savings: Avoid £300 probate fee, 3-6 months time, £1,500-£5,000+ solicitor costs
- Still need if: Sole property, exceeds thresholds, disputes, or foreign assets
Have more questions on UK death administration? Let Farra help.
When Probate Isn't Required
Understanding when probate isn't needed can save you time and money. For context on how this fits into the wider process, see our complete UK probate guide.
Small Estates
Each bank/institution has its own threshold (typically £5,000-£50,000), as explained in GOV.UK's probate guidance.
- Barclays: £50,000
- HSBC: £50,000
- Lloyds: £50,000
- NatWest: £25,000
- Santander: £50,000
Joint Assets
Property and accounts held jointly as joint tenants usually pass automatically to the survivor:
- Joint bank accounts
- Property held as joint tenants
- Joint investments
Nominated Assets
Some assets pass outside the estate to nominated beneficiaries, as explained by Which?:
- Life insurance with named beneficiaries
- Pension death benefits
- Some savings bonds and NS&I products
When You Will Need Probate
According to Citizens Advice, you will need probate for:
- Property held solely in deceased's name
- Bank accounts above institution's threshold
- Shares and investments (most require probate)
- Business interests
- Some types of pension
How to Proceed Without Probate
For guidance on notifying organisations, see MoneyHelper's bereavement guide:
- Contact each bank/institution with the death certificate
- Complete their bereavement forms
- Provide identification and proof of entitlement
- They will release funds if below their threshold
- Keep records of all transactions for tax purposes
Important Considerations
- • Even without probate, you're still responsible for paying debts
- • Inheritance tax may still be due on larger estates
- • Keep detailed records of all estate administration
- • Some institutions may still request probate despite low values
- • Consider getting legal advice if unsure
Related Guides
Do I Need Probate? UK Thresholds £5K-£50K (Free Checker 2026)
Probate needed if estate has property or over £50K. Joint accounts exempt. Check bank thresholds: HSBC £50K, smaller banks £15K.
What Documents Do I Need for Probate? Complete UK Checklist
Complete checklist of documents needed for probate in the UK. From death certificates to asset valuations - everything executors need to gather for probate applications.
Complete Guide to Applying for Probate
Step-by-step probate application process, forms needed, costs, and typical timeframes for grant of probate.
Estate Administration Checklist: Complete UK Guide for Executors
Comprehensive estate administration checklist for UK executors. Step-by-step guide covering probate, asset collection, debt payment, and distribution with timelines.
Do You Need Probate UK? Complete Guide 2026
Find out if you need probate in the UK. Property always needs probate. Small estates under £5K-£50K may not (depends on bank). Joint assets exempt.