Why use The Law Superstore to compare quotes for probate?
- Expert solicitors across the country
- Vetted and regulated by the SRA
- Over 100,000 people helped
- Instantly compare quotes from up to 4 solicitors
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The agent contacted us immediately made an appointment, kept it and talked us through the whole process. Would happily recommend this service
29th February 2024
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An excellent and informative service which is easy to use for a fraction of the Main Street price.
22nd February 2024
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Brilliant service, I got instant quotes and responses for potential solicitors. They solicitors took time to explain my various options and recommendations. Thank you
05th February 2024
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All four companies suggested contacted me. I have arranged an appointment with one of them to sort everything out. All very straightforward - Thank you.
31st January 2024
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I received two quotes and two telephone calls from your selected companies. The two quotes I received were for less than 60% of the quote I received from a local company. I am very pleased with your recommendations and the ease of using your services.
27th January 2024
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I was contacted almost straight away by 2 companies and a third company contacted me on the next working day. I am pleased so far with my choice.
24th January 2024
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I approached a recommended solicitor and he was very helpful and put my mind at ease regarding the power of attorney process. His prices were lower than I'd been quoted with other solicitors. I would recommend using The Law Superstore to everyone. Thank you.
11th January 2024
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Received an excellent quote within 24 hours. Felt confident as the firm is backed by The Law Superstore.
01st January 2024
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Within 18 hours I had been contacted by all four companies either by phone and/or email. My husband and I now feel prepared with all the information we need and will be deciding which to go with. This has been very easy so far and I have recommended The Law Superstore to a family member.
23rd December 2023
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Very simple to use and the prices were much more competitive than the extortionate rates I was being quoted locally. It has all been very easy.
13th December 2023
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Sent a good few solicitors to deal with my problem and had a quick response from all of them. The site is very easy to navigate. Very impressed, highly recommend.
06th December 2023
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Instant response. Home meeting arranged within 24 hours. Advice taken and work started immediately.
23rd November 2023
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I tried a Google search with limited success! But this put me in contact with local solicitors who contacted me almost straight away! Great resource.
23rd October 2023
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Everything was fast, efficient and hassle free. I would definitely recommend to anyone needing help.
19th October 2023
How to apply for probate
As the executor of a loved one’s will, when the time comes to start the process of dealing with their estate, you’ll need to apply for a grant of probate. This will confirm that you are who you say you are, and that you have the authority to close accounts, deal with property and assign items in line with the will.
If you are working with an expert solicitor, they’ll guide you in filling out the correct forms for the grant of probate. They will also support you in filling out forms to the HMRC regarding Inheritance Tax.
When all assets have been summarized and accounted for, debts will be paid, accounts will be closed and inheritance will be assigned to the appropriate beneficiaries. During this time it may be that the property is put up for sale, or is assigned as part of the inheritance.
Your solicitor will be able to guide you through the process to ensure it’s as smooth as possible.
Getting a grant of probate
If you are the executor of a will, then you’ll need a grant of probate to start the probate process. The grant of probate confirms the chosen executor can deal with the deceased’s estate. If you know you are the executor of a will, you can apply for a grant of probate. Only executors are allowed to apply to start the probate process. Often there is more than one executor of a will.
Getting letters of administration
If the deceased hasn’t left a will, you’ll need to get letters of administration to confirm you can start the probate process. These are also often called letters of representation. These give you the authority to deal with the deceased’s estate. You are likely to be approved for letters of administration if you’re a close family member, like a sibling, spouse, child or parent.
Frequently asked questions
What is probate?
Probate is the process of taking authority over the estate of someone who has passed away. During the probate process, the executor will assess the value and contents of the estate with the help of a solicitor, and then work through paying Inheritance Tax and any other bills, and then ensuring each beneficiary receives what they are due.
How long does probate take?
You will usually receive the grant of probate or letters of administration within 16 weeks of application. It may take longer if there is further information needed. Once you’ve received the paperwork, you can start dealing with the estate. The amount of time this takes will depend on the size and complexity of the estate, how many properties are involved and how many beneficiaries there are. Probate can feel like it takes a long time, but there is quite a lot to manage even after the grant arrives.
When don’t you need a grant of probate?
There are some situations in which you may not need a grant of probate. If the property and accounts were all joint accounts, with the other person still living, everything would transfer to them. If the estate is made up of cash and belongings, and the cash amounts to under £5000, some banks and building societies may release it without a grant of probate.
How to choose a probate solicitor
When choosing a probate solicitor, you want someone who is experienced with this area of the law, knows the process and can advise you on how to proceed in the best way for you and your family. Our probate solicitors are experienced, regulated by the SRA and have lots of great reviews. A brilliant probate solicitor is someone who is empathetic and aware of how the probate process may affect you as an executor, especially if you were close to the deceased.
Take the time to speak to a couple of solicitors about how they approach probate, and ask them why they’re the right choice for you.
How much does probate cost?
When it comes to applying for a grant of probate, if the estate is worth less than £5000, there is no charge for the application. If it’s over £5000, the grant costs £273. You’ll also pay £1.50 per copy of the grant of probate (this is useful for sending to banks, building societies and other accounts you need to close and inform them of the death). In terms of solicitor fees, this depends on how complex the will is.
