How to Apply for Probate with a Will – The Six Key Steps
When the deceased left a valid will, the executors named in it must apply for probate. Once they are issued with a Grant of Probate, this confirms their authority to manage the estate, deal with banks, the Land Registry, and other institutions. Once the grant is issued, the executors can carry out the instructions in the will.
Step 1: Confirm who will act
The first step is to check the will and identify the executors. If the will names more than one, they must agree who will apply. Up to four executors can apply together, but often one or two take the lead. Executors who do not wish to take part can renounce their appointment or allow others to proceed with "power reserved." This means they remain entitled to step back in later if needed.
Step 2: Value the estate
Executors must collect accurate valuations of the deceased's property, bank accounts, savings, investments, pensions, insurance policies, and personal possessions, as well as any debts. These figures determine whether inheritance tax is due.
You may want to read:
How to value and estate for probate
How to value a probate property
Step 3: Complete inheritance tax obligations
Executors must complete the appropriate HMRC forms and, if tax is payable, arrange for at least the first instalment to be paid before the Probate Registry will issue the grant of probate. Even if no tax is owed, you usually still have to submit forms to HMRC to confirm this.
You may want to read:
The Inheritance Tax Loan — Executors needing a loan to pay inheritance tax before probate completes can compare specialist lenders via The Probate Network. Probate and Inheritance Tax : An Overview
Step 4: Complete the probate application
Once the estate has been valued and the tax position settled, the executors can apply for probate. The application can be made online or by post using form PA1P. The original will must be sent with the application, along with the death certificate, inheritance tax paperwork, and any supporting documents. The Probate Registry will keep the original will, so executors should make a copy for their records.
Step 5: Pay the fee
The same fees apply as with Letters of Administration. Estates worth less than £5,000 do not require a fee, but estates above that threshold must pay the standard fee of £526 (increased from £300 on 13 July 2026; to check current fees visit Gov.uk). Executors often order several official copies of the Grant of Probate, as most banks, investment providers, and other institutions will only release funds when shown an official sealed copy.
Step 6: Receive the Grant of Probate
Once the Probate Registry approves the application, it issues the Grant of Probate. This document gives the executors formal authority to collect in assets, sell property if required, settle outstanding debts, pay any inheritance tax and other liabilities, and distribute what remains of the estate to the beneficiaries named in the will. Executors must act in the best interests of the estate and follow the instructions in the will.
Get Help from The Probate Network
If you're unsure about how to apply for probate, it can be challenging to know where to begin. Consulting a specialist solicitor can make the entire process much easier from start to finish.
The Probate Network can connect you with experienced probate solicitors who will explain your options, guide you through the process, and make sure the estate is administered correctly. You can either request a probate quote if you want to compare how much solicitors charge for probate ,or arrange a some basic but free probate advice.
