How long is probate, usually? Our simple guide to probate timings will explain everything. Questions? Call 0800 054 9896 to speak to one of our probate experts.
How long does probate take to go through, overall?
The word ‘probate’ often refers to the entire process of settling the estate of someone who has died. From beginning to end, this process usually takes between 9 and 12 months.
That said, in cases where the estate is small and uncomplicated, probate can take less time. Working with an estate administration professional can also help, since they can dedicate more time to it.
How long can probate take, stage by stage?
Broadly speaking, there are three main stages in the probate process:
Gathering information for probate and IHT takes 4-8 weeks
Before you can begin sorting out the estate of someone who has died, you’ll need to know what that estate is made up of.
So, your first step is to gather information. For example:
- How much is left in their bank account
- The value of any property they owned
- The value of their possessions and investments
- Details of any cash gifts they gave in the last seven years
- Details of tax owed, plus any other outstanding debts
- Whether the organisations holding assets (e.g. banks) require a grant of representation before you can access them
You’ll also need to track down documents:
- The original will and any codicils
- A death certificate (also useful to have a few copies)
- Paperwork relating to their ownership of certain assets
Once you know the full value of the estate, the next step is to report it to HMRC. They will then confirm how much inheritance tax is due (if any). This needs to be dealt with before you apply for a grant of representation.
Applying for the grant of representation takes 4-8 weeks
Once you’ve found out the value of the estate and reported it to HMRC, you can apply for a grant of representation. This is a document that proves your legal right to sort out the estate of the person who has died. With it, you can access and close their bank accounts, pay any outstanding debts, settle any inheritance tax, and see that their funds, assets and property are given to the right people.
There are two types of grant in England, Wales and Northern Ireland: if there is a will, you’ll need to apply for a grant of probate. If there isn’t a will, you’ll need a letter of administration instead. In Scotland, you’ll need a certificate of confirmation in both cases.
You can find out more about how to apply for a grant of representation here. Not sure if you need to do this? Read our guide: ‘When is probate required?’
How long does probate take once submitted?
After you’ve sent out the form, it’s natural to wonder how long the grant of probate will take to arrive (or letter of administration, if you’re settling the estate without a will). Citizens Advice estimates that it takes three to five weeks, as long as the estate is pretty simple to review and the application has been completed properly.
Dividing up the estate takes 6-9 months
Once you have the grant of representation, you’ll be able to access the assets of the person who has died, including their bank accounts, insurance and deeds to their property. You can now pay any debts and tax that were left behind, sell property, pay for the funeral and divide up the remaining estate.
How long does probate take with a will – or without one?
A will usually makes the probate process faster, since it should outline what the estate includes and who should receive what – this can save you weeks of information-gathering time. However, a will can also make the probate process longer by setting out trusts to be established or stipulations to be met; if the will is contested, the probate process can go on for years.
Need a hand with probate?
The full estate administration service here at Beyond includes 24/7 online case tracking, text updates and a dedicated representative to call whenever you have questions. So if you go with us, you don’t have to wonder how long probate will take – you can check your progress any time.
To find out more, request a call back here or give us a ring on 0800 054 9896.
Next in our probate series >> When is Probate Required?