{"id":40,"date":"2018-09-28T08:13:29","date_gmt":"2018-09-28T08:13:29","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/willsandprobate.rip\/index.php\/home-05\/"},"modified":"2018-09-28T08:13:29","modified_gmt":"2018-09-28T08:13:29","slug":"what-is-probate","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/simply-wills.com\/what-is-probate","title":{"rendered":"Probate Explained"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[vc_row full_width=&#8221;stretch_row&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;padding_top:115;padding_bottom:115&#8243; background_image=&#8221;1393&#8243; el_id=&#8221;section-services&#8221; background_position=&#8221;center center&#8221;][vc_column][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text_transform=&#8221;uppercase&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; custom_text_color=&#8221;#7a8a9e&#8221; text=&#8221;Probate UK Explained&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:14&#8243; letter_spacing=&#8221;3px&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:20&#8243;][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text=&#8221;Probate Explained&#8221; max_width=&#8221;770px&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:36&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:30&#8243;][tm_heading tag=&#8221;div&#8221; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text=&#8221;Carrying out the process of Probate on the estate of a loved one is a significant undertaking. It involves a great deal of challenging legal, and administrative work, which in times of grief can be stressful, not to mention confusing.&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:18&#8243; max_width=&#8221;770px&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:70&#8243;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row full_width=&#8221;stretch_row&#8221; background_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; custom_background_color=&#8221;#eeeeee&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;padding_bottom:70&#8243;][vc_column][vc_row_inner lg_spacing=&#8221;margin_top:-135&#8243;][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/3&#8243;][tm_box_icon style=&#8221;7&#8243; align=&#8221;center&#8221; button_color=&#8221;secondary&#8221; background_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; image=&#8221;2598&#8243; heading=&#8221;Probate Plans&#8221; text=&#8221;A probate plan means that you can fix the cost of probate in advance meaning your family has nothing to pay and nothing to worry about after your death.&#8221; button=&#8221;|title:More%20Details||&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/3&#8243;][tm_box_icon style=&#8221;7&#8243; align=&#8221;center&#8221; button_color=&#8221;secondary&#8221; background_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; image=&#8221;2602&#8243; heading=&#8221;Probate Advice&#8221; text=&#8221;If you have been: \u2018written out\u2019 of a Will, left with insufficient financial provision, or promised something which has not materialised, we can help you.&#8221; button=&#8221;|title:More%20Details||&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/3&#8243;][tm_box_icon style=&#8221;7&#8243; align=&#8221;center&#8221; button_color=&#8221;secondary&#8221; background_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; overlay_background=&#8221;primary&#8221; overlay_opacity=&#8221;80&#8243; image=&#8221;2601&#8243; heading=&#8221;Contentious Probate&#8221; text=&#8221;Our network of probate solicitors specialise in providing bespoke, and cost-effective service in relation to disputes surrounding Wills and Inheritance.&#8221; button=&#8221;|title:More%20Details||&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][tm_heading tag=&#8221;p&#8221; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text=&#8221;We have put together this page to help you understand probate more fully. We have included information such as who is responsible for carrying out probate, what to do if there is or is not a will, the appointment and responsibilities of an Executor and much more. Have a read through and hopefully we will have answered many of the questions that were playing on your mind.&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:20&#8243;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\" style=\"text-align: center;\">Don&#8217;t hesitate, contact us if you are unsure of the service you need or just need some help and advice.\u00a0<a style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"#\"><span class=\"s2\">Contact Us<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row lg_spacing=&#8221;margin_top:60;margin_bottom:60&#8243;][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text_transform=&#8221;uppercase&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; custom_text_color=&#8221;#7a8a9e&#8221; text=&#8221;Probate UK Explained&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:14&#8243; letter_spacing=&#8221;3px&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:20&#8243;][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text=&#8221;What is Probate?&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:30&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][tm_heading tag=&#8221;div&#8221; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text=&#8221;In the UK, \u2018Probate\u2019 is the term used to describe the legal and financial processes involved in dealing with and distributing the assets of a person who has died. It might mean seeking permission to distribute their assets\/estate and\/or clear their debts in accordance with their will.<\/p>\n<p>The person who carries out probate is known as the \u2018Executor\u2019, and is usually nominated in the deceased\u2019s will. There can be more than one executor and contrary to popular belief, they are allowed to be a beneficiaries of the will.<\/p>\n<p>An executor will often be a family member or a trusted friend of the deceased. However, it is sometimes necessary to appoint a professional executor who will often be a solicitor or professional will writer. In some cases, the next of kin or \u2018Executor of the Will\u2019 may have to apply for Probate before anyone can claim, transfer, sell or distribute any of the deceased\u2019s property.<\/p>\n<p>Before probate is undertaken, a \u2018Grant of Probate\u2019 or \u2018Letters of Administration\u2019 must be obtained.&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:18&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][tm_heading tag=&#8221;div&#8221; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text=&#8221;A \u2018grant of probate\u2019 is an official document that gives you the legal right to settle the estate of someone who has died. The Executor uses the grant to show they have the right to access funds, organise finances, and collect and share out the deceased person\u2019s assets as set out in the will. Once this has been granted, the next of kin or Executor may begin dealing with assets of the deceased in accordance with their Will.<\/p>\n<p>Like the grant of probate, the grant of \u2018letters of administration\u2019 is a legal document which confirms the administrator\u2019s authority to deal with assets belonging to the deceased.<\/p>\n<p>In some cases such as where the beneficiary is a child, the law states that more than one person must act as the administrator.<\/p>\n<p>You might also come across the term grant of representation which is a general term used for grants of probate and the granting of letters of administration.&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:18&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row full_width=&#8221;stretch_row&#8221; overlay_background=&#8221;primary&#8221; overlay_opacity=&#8221;16&#8243; lg_spacing=&#8221;padding_top:110;padding_bottom:110&#8243; background_image=&#8221;185&#8243;][vc_column][vc_row_inner background_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;margin_right:0;margin_left:0;padding_right:70;padding_left:70&#8243; custom_background_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221; sm_spacing=&#8221;padding_right:30;padding_left:30&#8243; xs_spacing=&#8221;padding_right:15;padding_left:15&#8243;][vc_column_inner][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:85&#8243;][tm_heading style=&#8221;with-separator-1&#8243; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text_transform=&#8221;uppercase&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; text=&#8221;OUR COMMITMENTS&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:14&#8243; letter_spacing=&#8221;1px&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:25&#8243;][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text=&#8221;When is Probate Required?&#8221; font_size=&#8221;sm:32;lg:36&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:40&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner background_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;margin_right:0;margin_left:0;padding_right:70;padding_bottom:40;padding_left:70&#8243; custom_background_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221; sm_spacing=&#8221;padding_right:30;padding_left:30&#8243; xs_spacing=&#8221;padding_right:15;padding_left:15&#8243;][vc_column_inner offset=&#8221;vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:15&#8243;][vc_column_text]Probate is Required in the UK when the person who died leaves one or more of the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\u00a310,000 or more<\/li>\n<li>stocks or shares<\/li>\n<li>some insurance policies<\/li>\n<li>property \/ land owned in their name or as \u2018tenants in common\u2019<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Usually the bank or relevant institution will require proof of the grant of probate before handing over control of the assets. If the estate is small, some organisations, may choose to release the money to you.[\/vc_column_text][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:30&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=&#8221;vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:15&#8243;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">You may not need a grant of probate if the deceased:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>owned less than \u00a310,000 worth of assets.<\/li>\n<li>owned everything jointly with another person, in which case, everything passes automatically to them.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>To find out if the assets can be obtained without a grant, the executor or administrator would need to write to each institution informing them of the death and enclosing a photocopy of the death certificate and the will if there is one.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:30&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner background_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;margin_right:0;margin_bottom:40;margin_left:0;padding_right:70;padding_bottom:40;padding_left:70&#8243; custom_background_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221;][vc_column_inner][tm_heading style=&#8221;with-separator-1&#8243; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text_transform=&#8221;uppercase&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; text=&#8221;OUR COMMITMENTS&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:14&#8243; letter_spacing=&#8221;1px&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:25&#8243;][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text=&#8221;How Does Probate Work?&#8221; max_width=&#8221;470px&#8221; font_size=&#8221;sm:32;lg:36&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:25&#8243;][vc_column_text]How the process of probate in the UK is carried out will depend on whether you choose go through probate yourself or appoint a professional to act on your behalf.<\/p>\n<p>Appointing a professional is often wise, especially if you are dealing with a complex estate or many beneficiaries. If you choose to administer the will yourself, you will need to fill out the relevant forms (if in England you must apply to the Probate Registry) to obtain the right to act as an executor. You will then need to gather all the assets of the deceased and distribute them to the beneficiaries.<\/p>\n<p>Probate also involves tasks such as notifying banks, building societies, relevant government departments of the person\u2019s death, settling and closing accounts they hold, valuing their assets and liabilities and paying off any inheritance tax that might be owed.<\/p>\n<p>Here is a list of steps that the process of probate entails:<\/p>\n<p>The probate process involves the following steps:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Find out if the deceased posessed any prepaid probate. This will make the process much simpler and the following steps will be taken care of for you. In cases where probate was prepaid, the solicitor will carry on the following for you.The validity of the Will will be checked as will the beneficiaries\u2019 entitlement to the deceased\u2019s estate.<\/li>\n<li>The value of the estate will be determined by identifying and valuing the assets of the deceased against all outstanding debts.<\/li>\n<li>A Grant of Representation from the Probate Registry must be obtained before the administration of assets. You may have to fill in a probate application form which can be obtained online from the Government website.<\/li>\n<li>The deceased\u2019s executor or representative must swear an oath that the information you supply is true to the best of your knowledge. This can be done at a local probate office or at the office of a commissioner for oaths. Many solicitors offer this service.<\/li>\n<li>Payment Inheritance Tax due to HMRC, if there is any.<\/li>\n<li>Settling of any outstanding debts by sale of the deceased\u2019s assets if necessary. Remember, tax owed by the deceased is considered a debt on the estate. In situations where debts exceed the value of the estate, the estate becomes insolvent.<\/li>\n<li>Recording of all payments to and from the estate. These must show the remaining balance to be distributed amongst beneficiaries.<\/li>\n<li>Distribution of the remaining assets according to will<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:40&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row full_width=&#8221;stretch_row_content_no_spaces&#8221; equal_height=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column offset=&#8221;vc_col-lg-6&#8243;][vc_row_inner equal_height=&#8221;yes&#8221; background_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; gutter=&#8221;lg:0&#8243;][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/4&#8243; background_image=&#8221;2546&#8243; background_position=&#8221;center center&#8221; xs_spacing=&#8221;padding_top:500&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;3\/4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;auto&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;padding_top:80;padding_right:60;padding_bottom:77;padding_left:60&#8243; background_image=&#8221;222&#8243; background_position=&#8221;right 45px bottom 45px&#8221;][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; custom_text_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221; text=&#8221;What If There Is No Will?&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:36&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:26&#8243;][vc_column_text el_class=&#8221;white&#8221;]In the UK, (England and Wales), when someone dies without a Will, the \u2018Rules of Intestacy\u2019 apply. This means the deceased\u2019s relatives are lined up in an order of priority and the estate is shared accordingly. So if, for example, their husband, wife or civil partner is still alive, he\/she will be the main beneficiary.<\/p>\n<p>After a spouse or civil partner, the order of priority is as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Children<\/li>\n<li>Grandchildren<\/li>\n<li>Great grandchildren<\/li>\n<li>Parents<\/li>\n<li>Siblings<\/li>\n<li>Nieces and nephews<\/li>\n<li>Other close relatives<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>When someone dies \u2018intestate\u2019, only a beneficiary is allowed to apply for Probate. This person will be known as an \u2018Administrator\u2019, as opposed to an Executor where a Will exists.<\/p>\n<p>The Administrator must apply to the Probate Registry for a Grant of Letters of Administration. This is different to where a will exists where the Executor must apply for a Grant of Probate. Otherwise the process is the same. However, in this case, the Estate will be distributed according to the Rules of Intestacy, not the terms of the Will.<\/p>\n<p>It is hard to determine how long it will take to get a Grant of Probate and complete the Estate administration process as every Estate is different.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][vc_column background_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; offset=&#8221;vc_col-lg-6&#8243;][vc_row_inner equal_height=&#8221;yes&#8221; background_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; gutter=&#8221;lg:0&#8243;][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/4&#8243; background_image=&#8221;2545&#8243; background_position=&#8221;center center&#8221; xs_spacing=&#8221;padding_top:500&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;3\/4&#8243; background_color=&#8221;secondary&#8221; background_size=&#8221;auto&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;padding_top:80;padding_right:60;padding_bottom:77;padding_left:60&#8243; background_image=&#8221;223&#8243; background_position=&#8221;right 45px bottom 45px&#8221;][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; custom_text_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221; text=&#8221;Applying For Probate&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:36&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:26&#8243;][vc_column_text el_class=&#8221;white&#8221;]\u201cApplying for Probate\u201d means applying for the legal right to deal with someone\u2019s property, money and possessions\/estate when they pass away. If the person left a will, you will get a \u2018grant of probate\u2019. If the person did not leave a will, you\u2019ll get \u2018letters of administration\u2019. The process of application is the same for both, though The process is different in Scotland and Northern Ireland.<\/p>\n<p>There are instances when you do not need to apply for probate. This is if the person who died:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>jointly owned land, property, shares or money, in which case, these will automatically pass to the surviving owners.<\/li>\n<li>Had only savings or premium bonds.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Here is a rundown of the steps of applying for probate:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Check if there\u2019s a will.<\/li>\n<li>Learn what to do if there\u2019s no will.<\/li>\n<li>Make a Valuation of the estate and inform HMRC.<\/li>\n<li>Make the application for probate.<\/li>\n<li>Pay any Inheritance Tax due. Often, a portion of this must be paidbefore probate is carried out.<\/li>\n<li>Gather all proceeds from the sale of the person\u2019s property.<\/li>\n<li>Pay off outstanding debts.<\/li>\n<li>Make a record of how proceeds will be split.<\/li>\n<li>Distribute the assets to the people named in the will.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row full_width=&#8221;stretch_row_content_no_spaces&#8221;][vc_column offset=&#8221;vc_col-lg-6&#8243;][vc_row_inner lg_spacing=&#8221;padding_top:120;padding_right:120;padding_bottom:120;padding_left:120&#8243; md_spacing=&#8221;padding_right:80;padding_left:80&#8243; sm_spacing=&#8221;padding_right:50;padding_left:50&#8243; xs_spacing=&#8221;padding_right:30;padding_left:30&#8243;][vc_column_inner][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; icon_type=&#8221;icomoon&#8221; icon_icomoon=&#8221;icomoon-chat-1&#8243; icon_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; text=&#8221;Frequently Asked Questions&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:36&#8243; icon_font_size=&#8221;lg:54&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:15&#8243;][tm_heading tag=&#8221;div&#8221; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text=&#8221;Should you have any questions related to our health care services, billing methods, treatment plan, disease diagnosis, etc. please contact us for more info.&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:40&#8243;][tm_accordion style=&#8221;3&#8243; auto_number_style=&#8221;1&#8243; items=&#8221;%5B%7B%22title%22%3A%22What%20is%20Probate%3F%22%2C%22content%22%3A%22In%20England%20and%20Wales%20Probate%20the%20legal%20and%20financial%20processes%20carried%20out%20when%20dealing%20with%20the%20assets%20of%20a%20person%20who%20has%20died.%20Assets%20might%20include%20property%2C%20money%20and%20possessions.%20Before%20anyone%20can%20claim%20what%20has%20been%20left%20to%20them%2C%20or%20transfer%20property%2C%20sell%2Fdistribute%20any%20of%20the%20deceased&#8217;s%20assets%2C%20they%20may%20have%20to%20apply%20for%20Probate.%20This%20includes%20next%20of%20kin%20and%20named%20beneficiaries.%5Cn%5CnWhen%20Probate%20has%20been%20granted%20via%20a%20Grant%20of%20Probate%20or%20Letters%20of%20Administration%20the%20next%20of%20kin%20or%20Executor%20of%20the%20will%20can%20start%20to%20organise%20the%20deceased%E2%80%99s%20assets%20in%20accordance%20with%20their%20Will.%20If%20no%20Will%20was%20made%2C%20the%20law%20will%20determine%20who%20should%20receive%20what.%5Cn%22%7D%2C%7B%22title%22%3A%22How%20much%20does%20probate%20cost%20through%20a%20solicitor%3F%22%2C%22content%22%3A%22Probate%20Fees%20vary%20and%20are%20dependant%20on%20many%20factors.%20These%20could%20include%20the%20size%2C%20value%20and%2For%20complexity%20of%20the%20estate.%20The%20Law%20Society%20suggests%20that%20solicitors%20charge%20a%20percentage%20of%20the%20value%20of%20the%20estate%2C%20depending%20on%20whether%20a%20property%20is%20involved%20or%20not.%20Some%20solicitors%20might%20also%20decide%20to%20charge%20an%20hourly%20rate%20their%20labour%20and%20costs.%20Others%20charge%20a%20combination%20of%20both.%20A%20solicitor%20might%20charge%20more%20if%20they%20are%20appointed%20as%20Executor%20rather%20than%20acting%20for%20%E2%80%98Lay%20Executors%E2%80%99.%20If%20solicitors%20charge%20you%20a%20percentage%20of%20the%20estate%20you%20could%20be%20paying%20between%201-3%25%20of%20its%20value.%20Otherwise%2C%20hourly%20rates%20may%20cost%20you%20between%20%C2%A3125-%C2%A3400.%22%7D%2C%7B%22title%22%3A%22What%20happens%20if%20the%20will%20doesn%E2%80%99t%20appoint%20an%20Executor%20%3F%22%2C%22content%22%3A%22If%20a%20will%20does%20not%20name%20an%20Executor%20or%20if%20the%20named%20executor%20does%20not%20wish%20to%20act%2C%20then%20a%20beneficiary%20named%20in%20the%20will%20can%20apply%20to%20act%20as%20executor%20in%20their%20place.%20The%20grant%20received%20in%20this%20case%20is%20called%20letters%20of%20administration%20with%20the%20will%20annexed.%20In%20effect%20and%20purpose%20it%20is%20practically%20the%20same%20as%20an%20ordinary%20Grant%20of%20Probate.%22%7D%2C%7B%22title%22%3A%22How%20long%20do%20I%20have%20to%20contest%20a%20will%3F%22%2C%22content%22%3A%22If%20you%20have%20decided%20to%20contest%20a%20will%20it%20is%20very%20important%20to%20seek%20legal%20advice%20sas%20soon%20as%20possible.%20If%20your%20claim%20is%20to%20be%20made%20under%20the%20Inheritance%20Act%20then%20you%20only%20have%206%20months%20from%20the%20date%20probate%20was%20issued.%20In%20some%20circumstances%20there%20are%20time%20limits%20which%20apply%20depending%20upon%20the%20nature%20of%20the%20claim.%20For%20example%3A%20a%20creditor%20has%206%20years%20to%20file%20a%20claim%20but%20if%20a%20beneficiary%20wishes%20to%20bring%20a%20claim%20they%20have%2012%20years.%20There%20is%20no%20time%20limit%20for%20a%20claim%20made%20if%20the%20basis%20of%20the%20claim%20is%20%20fraud.%22%7D%2C%7B%22title%22%3A%22What%20if%20there%20is%20no%20will%3F%22%2C%22content%22%3A%22When%20someone%20dies%20no%20valid%20Will%20in%20place%2C%20this%20means%20they%20died%20Intestate.%20If%20this%20happens%20the%20beneficiaries%20of%20the%20Estate%20are%20determined%20by%20laws%20commonly%20referred%20to%20as%20the%20Rules%20of%20Intestacy.%20(This%20is%20also%20the%20case%20if%20the%20Will%20does%20not%20name%20any%20beneficiaries).%20Basically%2C%20the%20law%20determines%20who%20shall%20receive%20everything%20from%20cash%20to%20jewellery%20to%20books.%20%5Cn%5CnIntestacy%20rules%20don%E2%80%99t%20always%20allow%20for%20modern%20family%20dynamics.%20They%20only%20recognise%20the%20next-of-kin%20as%20Quite%20often%2C%20unmarried%20couples%2C%20unregistered%20partners%2C%20step%20children%2C%20step%20brothers%20and%20sisters%20will%20not%20inherit%20anything.%5Cn%22%7D%2C%7B%22title%22%3A%22What%20do%20I%20need%20to%20know%20about%20inheritance%20tax%3F%22%2C%22content%22%3A%22Sometimes%2C%20when%20someone%20passes%20away%2C%20inheritance%20tax%20needs%20to%20be%20paid.%20This%20can%20depend%20on%3A%5CnThe%20value%20of%20the%20property%20and%20possessions%20belonging%20to%20the%20deceased.%20%5Cnthe%20value%20of%20any%20gifts%20made%20before%20they%20died%2C%20and%20who%20these%20gifts%20were%20given%20to%5Cnthe%20value%20of%20particular%20trusts%20from%20which%20the%20dead%20person%20benefited.%5CnWho%20benefits%20as%20determined%20by%20the%20will%20or%20under%20rules%20of%20intestacy%20(beneficiaries).%22%7D%2C%7B%22title%22%3A%22How%20long%20does%20probate%20take%3F%22%2C%22content%22%3A%22Probate%20can%20take%20a%20long%20time%2C%20sometimes%20even%20up%20to%20a%20year%2C%20even%20longer%20in%20particular%20complicated%20cases..%20Sometimes%20banks%2C%20building%20societies%2C%20insurance%20companies%20and%20HM%20Revenue%20%26%20Customs%20can%20make%20the%20process%20drag%20out.%20Every%20case%20is%20different.%5Cn%5CnThe%20estate%20can%20only%20be%20dealt%20with%20once%20all%20claims%20have%20been%20received.%20Claims%20must%20be%20made%20within%20six%20months%20of%20the%20date%20probate%20was%20granted.%5Cn%5CnOther%20things%20that%20will%20probably%20affect%20the%20time%20scale%20are%3A%5Cn%3Cul%3E%5Cn%3Cli%3Ewhether%20or%20not%20the%20deceased%E2%80%99s%20financial%20affairs%20were%20in%20order.%3C%2Fli%3E%5Cn%3Cli%3Ewhat%20was%20owned%20and%20its%20location%3B%3C%2Fli%3E%5Cn%3Cli%3EAny%20business%20interests%20of%20the%20deceased.%3C%2Fli%3E%5Cn%3Cli%3Ewhether%20any%20legal%20disputes%20against%20the%20will%20are%20made%3C%2Fli%3E%5Cn%3Cli%3Ewhether%20inheritance%20tax%20needs%20is%20owed%3C%2Fli%3E%5Cn%3Cli%3EDealing%20with%20HM%20Revenue%20%26%20Customs%2C%20making%20sure%20all%20files%20are%20closed%20and%20income%20tax%2C%20benefits%20agencies%20and%20pensions%20have%20been%20finalised%3C%2Fli%3E%5Cn%3C%2Ful%3E%22%7D%5D&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][vc_column offset=&#8221;vc_col-lg-6&#8243;][vc_row_inner equal_height=&#8221;yes&#8221; background_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; gutter=&#8221;lg:0&#8243;][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; background_image=&#8221;134&#8243; background_position=&#8221;center center&#8221; xs_spacing=&#8221;padding_top:500&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; background_size=&#8221;auto&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;padding_top:80;padding_right:60;padding_bottom:77;padding_left:60&#8243; background_image=&#8221;223&#8243; background_position=&#8221;right 45px bottom 45px&#8221;][tm_heading tag=&#8221;h4&#8243; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; custom_text_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221; text=&#8221;How Long Does The Process Take?&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:36&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:26&#8243;][tm_heading tag=&#8221;div&#8221; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; custom_text_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221; text=&#8221;A straightforward probate case, such as one where the deceased owned a simple estate, no property to sell and a single bank account could take as little as 3 months though most probate cases in the UK take around 6 to 9 months for beneficiaries to receive their inheritance. Professional executors will expect to be paid from the proceeds of the estate for carrying out this duty.&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner equal_height=&#8221;yes&#8221; background_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; gutter=&#8221;lg:0&#8243;][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;2\/3&#8243; background_color=&#8221;secondary&#8221; background_size=&#8221;auto&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;padding_top:80;padding_right:60;padding_bottom:77;padding_left:60&#8243; background_image=&#8221;222&#8243; background_position=&#8221;right 45px bottom 45px&#8221;][tm_heading tag=&#8221;h4&#8243; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; custom_text_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221; text=&#8221;Should I use a solicitor for probate?&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:36&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:26&#8243;][vc_column_text el_class=&#8221;white&#8221;]There are times you might want to think about using a probate specialist, such as if:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The value of the estate is over the Inheritance Tax threshold.<\/li>\n<li>The estate is still earning a regular income and complicated taxes need to be paid. (The threshold for the 2016-17 tax year is \u00a3325,000).<\/li>\n<li>The deceased died without a will, and the estate looks to be complicated to administer.<\/li>\n<li>There are doubts about the validity of the will.<\/li>\n<li>The deceased had dependents who were deliberately left out of the will who might want to make a claim on the estate.<\/li>\n<li>The estate is bankrupt\/insolvent\/in administration, or;<\/li>\n<li>There are doubts that the estate is bankrupt.<\/li>\n<li>The deceased owned foreign property \/ assets.<\/li>\n<li>The deceased resided outside the UK for tax purposes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This list is not exhaustive but gives a good idea of when a solicitor should be approached for probate services.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/3&#8243; background_image=&#8221;75&#8243; background_position=&#8221;center center&#8221; xs_spacing=&#8221;padding_top:500&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row full_width=&#8221;stretch_row&#8221; overlay_background=&#8221;primary&#8221; overlay_opacity=&#8221;16&#8243; lg_spacing=&#8221;padding_top:110;padding_bottom:110&#8243; background_image=&#8221;185&#8243;][vc_column][vc_row_inner background_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;margin_right:0;margin_left:0;padding_top:65;padding_right:70;padding_bottom:65;padding_left:70&#8243; custom_background_color=&#8221;#fafafa&#8221; sm_spacing=&#8221;padding_right:30;padding_left:30&#8243; xs_spacing=&#8221;padding_right:15;padding_left:15&#8243;][vc_column_inner offset=&#8221;vc_col-md-offset-1 vc_col-md-10&#8243;][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text=&#8221;Need Advice On Any Aspect Of Probate?&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:24&#8243; max_width=&#8221;480px&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:40&#8243;][tm_contact_form_7 id=&#8221;805&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row full_width=&#8221;stretch_row&#8221; background_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;padding_top:115;padding_bottom:115&#8243; custom_background_color=&#8221;#f7f7f7&#8243;][vc_column][tm_heading style=&#8221;with-separator-1&#8243; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text_transform=&#8221;uppercase&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; text=&#8221;Probate News and Advice&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:14&#8243; letter_spacing=&#8221;1px&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:25&#8243;][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text=&#8221;Latest Probate Articles&#8221; max_width=&#8221;470px&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:36&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:30&#8243;][tm_heading tag=&#8221;div&#8221; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text=&#8221;Read the most popular news and articles relating to probate and articles containing useful help and information.&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:18&#8243; max_width=&#8221;770px&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:70&#8243;][tm_blog style=&#8221;carousel_01&#8243; carousel_nav=&#8221;2&#8243; carousel_gutter=&#8221;60&#8243; number=&#8221;9&#8243; carousel_items_display=&#8221;xs:1;sm:2;md:3;lg:3&#8243;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[vc_row full_width=&#8221;stretch_row&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;padding_top:115;padding_bottom:115&#8243; background_image=&#8221;1393&#8243; el_id=&#8221;section-services&#8221; background_position=&#8221;center center&#8221;][vc_column][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text_transform=&#8221;uppercase&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; custom_text_color=&#8221;#7a8a9e&#8221; text=&#8221;Probate UK Explained&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:14&#8243; letter_spacing=&#8221;3px&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:20&#8243;][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text=&#8221;Probate Explained&#8221; max_width=&#8221;770px&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:36&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:30&#8243;][tm_heading tag=&#8221;div&#8221; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text=&#8221;Carrying out the process of Probate on the estate of a loved one is a significant undertaking. It involves a great deal of challenging legal, and administrative work, which in times of grief can be stressful, not to mention confusing.&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:18&#8243; max_width=&#8221;770px&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:70&#8243;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row full_width=&#8221;stretch_row&#8221; background_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; custom_background_color=&#8221;#eeeeee&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;padding_bottom:70&#8243;][vc_column][vc_row_inner lg_spacing=&#8221;margin_top:-135&#8243;][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/3&#8243;][tm_box_icon style=&#8221;7&#8243; align=&#8221;center&#8221; button_color=&#8221;secondary&#8221; background_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; image=&#8221;2598&#8243; heading=&#8221;Probate Plans&#8221; text=&#8221;A probate plan means that you can fix the cost of probate in advance meaning your family has nothing to pay and nothing to worry about after your death.&#8221; button=&#8221;|title:More%20Details||&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/3&#8243;][tm_box_icon style=&#8221;7&#8243; align=&#8221;center&#8221; button_color=&#8221;secondary&#8221; background_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; image=&#8221;2602&#8243; heading=&#8221;Probate Advice&#8221; text=&#8221;If you have been: \u2018written out\u2019 of a Will, left with insufficient financial provision, or promised something which has not materialised, we can help you.&#8221; button=&#8221;|title:More%20Details||&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/3&#8243;][tm_box_icon style=&#8221;7&#8243; align=&#8221;center&#8221; button_color=&#8221;secondary&#8221; background_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; overlay_background=&#8221;primary&#8221; overlay_opacity=&#8221;80&#8243; image=&#8221;2601&#8243; heading=&#8221;Contentious Probate&#8221; text=&#8221;Our network of probate solicitors specialise in providing bespoke, and cost-effective service in relation to disputes surrounding Wills and Inheritance.&#8221; button=&#8221;|title:More%20Details||&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][tm_heading tag=&#8221;p&#8221; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text=&#8221;We have put together this page to help you understand probate more fully. We have included information such as who is responsible for carrying out probate, what to do if there is or is not a will, the appointment and responsibilities of an Executor and much more. Have a read through and hopefully we will have answered many of the questions that were playing on your mind.&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:20&#8243;][vc_column_text] Don&#8217;t hesitate, contact us if you are unsure of the service you need or just need some help and advice.\u00a0Contact Us [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row lg_spacing=&#8221;margin_top:60;margin_bottom:60&#8243;][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text_transform=&#8221;uppercase&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; custom_text_color=&#8221;#7a8a9e&#8221; text=&#8221;Probate UK Explained&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:14&#8243; letter_spacing=&#8221;3px&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:20&#8243;][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text=&#8221;What is Probate?&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:30&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][tm_heading tag=&#8221;div&#8221; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text=&#8221;In the UK, \u2018Probate\u2019 is the term used to describe the legal and financial processes involved in dealing with and distributing the assets of a person who has died. It might mean seeking permission to distribute their assets\/estate and\/or clear their debts in accordance with their will. The person who carries out probate is known as the \u2018Executor\u2019, and is usually nominated in the deceased\u2019s will. There can be more than one executor and contrary to popular belief, they are allowed to be a beneficiaries of the will. An executor will often be a family member or a trusted friend of the deceased. However, it is sometimes necessary to appoint a professional executor who will often be a solicitor or professional will writer. In some cases, the next of kin or \u2018Executor of the Will\u2019 may have to apply for Probate before anyone can claim, transfer, sell or distribute any of the deceased\u2019s property. Before probate is undertaken, a \u2018Grant of Probate\u2019 or \u2018Letters of Administration\u2019 must be obtained.&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:18&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][tm_heading tag=&#8221;div&#8221; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text=&#8221;A \u2018grant of probate\u2019 is an official document that gives you the legal right to settle the estate of someone who has died. The Executor uses the grant to show they have the right to access funds, organise finances, and collect and share out the deceased person\u2019s assets as set out in the will. Once this has been granted, the next of kin or Executor may begin dealing with assets of the deceased in accordance with their Will. Like the grant of probate, the grant of \u2018letters of administration\u2019 is a legal document which confirms the administrator\u2019s authority to deal with assets belonging to the deceased. In some cases such as where the beneficiary is a child, the law states that more than one person must act as the administrator. You might also come across the term grant of representation which is a general term used for grants of probate and the granting of letters of administration.&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:18&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row full_width=&#8221;stretch_row&#8221; overlay_background=&#8221;primary&#8221; overlay_opacity=&#8221;16&#8243; lg_spacing=&#8221;padding_top:110;padding_bottom:110&#8243; background_image=&#8221;185&#8243;][vc_column][vc_row_inner background_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;margin_right:0;margin_left:0;padding_right:70;padding_left:70&#8243; custom_background_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221; sm_spacing=&#8221;padding_right:30;padding_left:30&#8243; xs_spacing=&#8221;padding_right:15;padding_left:15&#8243;][vc_column_inner][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:85&#8243;][tm_heading style=&#8221;with-separator-1&#8243; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text_transform=&#8221;uppercase&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; text=&#8221;OUR COMMITMENTS&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:14&#8243; letter_spacing=&#8221;1px&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:25&#8243;][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text=&#8221;When is Probate Required?&#8221; font_size=&#8221;sm:32;lg:36&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:40&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner background_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;margin_right:0;margin_left:0;padding_right:70;padding_bottom:40;padding_left:70&#8243; custom_background_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221; sm_spacing=&#8221;padding_right:30;padding_left:30&#8243; xs_spacing=&#8221;padding_right:15;padding_left:15&#8243;][vc_column_inner offset=&#8221;vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:15&#8243;][vc_column_text]Probate is Required in the UK when the person who died leaves one or more of the following: \u00a310,000 or more stocks or shares some insurance policies property \/ land owned in their name or as \u2018tenants in common\u2019 Usually the bank or relevant institution will require proof of the grant of probate before handing over control of the assets. If the estate is small, some organisations, may choose to release the money to you.[\/vc_column_text][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:30&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner offset=&#8221;vc_col-lg-6 vc_col-md-6&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:15&#8243;][vc_column_text] You may not need a grant of probate if the deceased: owned less than \u00a310,000 worth of assets. owned everything jointly with another person, in which case, everything passes automatically to them. To find out if the assets can be obtained without a grant, the executor or administrator would need to write to each institution informing them of the death and enclosing a photocopy of the death certificate and the will if there is one. [\/vc_column_text][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:30&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner background_color=&#8221;custom&#8221; lg_spacing=&#8221;margin_right:0;margin_bottom:40;margin_left:0;padding_right:70;padding_bottom:40;padding_left:70&#8243; custom_background_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221;][vc_column_inner][tm_heading style=&#8221;with-separator-1&#8243; custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; text_transform=&#8221;uppercase&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;primary&#8221; text=&#8221;OUR COMMITMENTS&#8221; font_size=&#8221;lg:14&#8243; letter_spacing=&#8221;1px&#8221;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:25&#8243;][tm_heading custom_google_font=&#8221;&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; text=&#8221;How Does Probate Work?&#8221; max_width=&#8221;470px&#8221; font_size=&#8221;sm:32;lg:36&#8243;][tm_spacer size=&#8221;lg:25&#8243;][vc_column_text]How the process of probate in the UK is carried out will depend on whether you choose go through probate yourself or appoint a professional to act on your behalf. Appointing a professional is often wise, especially if you are dealing with a complex estate or many beneficiaries. If you choose to administer the will yourself, you will need to fill out the relevant forms (if in England you must apply to the Probate Registry) to obtain the right to act as an executor. You will then need to gather all the assets of the deceased and distribute them to the beneficiaries. Probate also involves tasks such as notifying banks, building societies, relevant government departments of the person\u2019s death, settling and closing accounts they hold, valuing their assets and liabilities and paying off any inheritance tax that might be owed. Here is a list of steps that the process of probate entails: The probate process involves the following steps: Find out if [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/simply-wills.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/40"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/simply-wills.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/simply-wills.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simply-wills.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simply-wills.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=40"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/simply-wills.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/40\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/simply-wills.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=40"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}