Guides Someone’s estate

Getting probate

How to find a probate solicitor in the UK

You can find a probate solicitor near you by searching online or in telephone directories. Or, if you would prefer to sort out probate over the phone, you could use our nationwide probate service.

DIY probate: how to deal with someone's estate without paying expensive solicitor fees

Dealing with probate can be an expensive process. But by closing accounts, selling property and distributing assets yourself, you could save thousands in probate solicitor fees.

The duties of an executor: executor of will checklist

An executor of a will is responsible for dealing with the estate of the person who died. This includes valuing the estate, selling property, closing accounts, paying off debts and distributing assets to the beneficiaries named in the will.

How to get probate without a will

To get probate without a will, you need to apply for a grant of letters of administration. This allows the next of kin to access the estate and distribute assets in line with the rules of intestacy – which we’ll explain in more detail here.

How to find a will

You can usually find someone’s will with other important financial documents, such as bank statements and pension information. If you can’t find it in their house, you could search online to see if the will is recorded on the National Will Register.

Estate valuation: how to value a house and other assets for probate

To value a house for probate, it’s usually best to hire an RICS property surveyor – especially if the estate’s value is close to or above the inheritance tax threshold. For bank accounts and other assets, you can usually contact the organisations directly.

What happens to debt when someone dies?

When someone dies with outstanding debt, it needs to be repaid from the estate before beneficiaries can get their inheritance. If there isn't enough money in the estate to pay it off, the debt is simply written off.

Is it possible for one executor to act without the other?

If you’re an executor of a will and other executors have also been appointed, you may have some questions about who should act and apply for probate and how. This article explains some of the things you may need or want to know as a co-executor.

GuidesSomeone’s estate