What is 
Probate

This website provides information on Probate in the UK and related topics. This is NOT a government website and is not affiliated with any UK department including the Ministry of Justice. Every effort has been made to insure the accuracy of the information provided.

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What is Probate
What is Probate. How do you apply for Probate. How Long Does Probate Take. How Much Does Probate Cost. Do I need to get Probate. Rules of Intestacy UK. What to do as an Executor of a Will. How to Obtain Grant of Probate. Apply for a Grant of Letters of Administration. What is Contentious Probate. Probate Registry Offices. Probate Scams. Contact Us. Privacy Policy. Terms of Use.
It is possible to apply for the Probate authority known as the Grant of Representation either in person or via a solicitor. You also need to aware of the pros and cons of using either method.

The main advantage of the DIY route is cost saving, in theory the process can cost as little as £105. On the other hand the main advantages of using a solicitor is hiring a professional  who knows how the systems works and obviously this gives them technical expertise.
You need to follow these four simple steps when applying for probate authority.
1. Complete a Probate Application Form

This can be completed on paper or online and creates the foundation of your application.

2. Complete an Inheritance Tax Form

Within this form you will need to work out the full value of the estate and calculate any Inheritance Tax due. (Please note, some or all of the tax liable will usually need to be paid before the Grant of Representation is issued and before the assets of the will can be accessed).

3. Submission of Your Application

Along with the completed Probate Application Form and Inheritance Tax Form, you will also be required to submit an official copy of the death certificate, 3 copies of the will along with the original document as well as the application fee.

4. Swear an Oath

Once your application has been submitted you will be required to attend the local probate office where you will be asked to swear an oath that all the information you have included in your application is true to the best of your knowledge. (Make sure you take two forms of valid identification with you, which should be a passport and driving licence whenever possible.)

Once you have completed these steps to the satisfaction of the probate office, your Grant of Representation, or Grant of Probate, should be issued.
How Do You Apply For Probate?