What documents do I need for probate?
The documents you need for probate depend on where in the process you are – have you completed the Inheritance Tax (IHT) return form or not?
The documents also vary depending on where you are in the UK. In England and Wales, you'll need to fill in:
In Scotland, probate is known as Confirmation, and you'll need to complete a C1 form to apply.
Before IHT return form completion
Register the death
It’s important that the death is registered within five days at your local registry office. This will provide you with the Death Certificate, which you'll need for the probate application.
Arrange the funeral
It can be useful to locate the Will (if there is one) at this stage, as it may contain the deceased's wishes regarding burial or cremation. Also, the Will is needed for probate, if such exists.
Valuation of the estate
At this point, any documentation you can locate relating to estate value, such as insurance documents, receipts, or contracts, will be useful for the valuation of the estate. If you contact banks, utility providers, and other relevant institutions, they may be able to help you build a better picture of the deceased's assets and debts.
The assets which make up the estate include anything that was owned solely or in shares (such as 50% of a house), as well as anything that was owed, like pension contributions. Probate assets typically include:
- Money in bank accounts;
- Property and land;
- Personal possessions;
- Business assets.
It’s important to include home contents in the estate valuation, so make a list of any items that you think are still valuable (including cars, jewellery, or furniture). But remember, used items are not as valuable as new ones. Look online at how much similar items are being sold for.
Please note, if you find insurance valuations of an item, it will reflect its value when new. So older possessions will be worth less. Antiques, valuable artwork, or other collectibles should be valued by a professional.
So, as you can see at this point, all the documentation you can find might be useful. Once all of these documents have been gathered and the value of the estate established, you will need to complete the IHT form.
After the IHT return form completion
If you are an Executor named in the Will, you will need to get a Grant of Probate and complete a PA1P. If you are applying as a beneficiary under intestacy rules (if there is no Will), you need a Grant of Letters of Administration and the PA1A form.
Submit your application
Send the following documents to the Probate Registry:
- The death certificate;
- The original Will (if there is one);
- The correct application form (PA1P, PA1A, or C1).
