How long does it take to obtain probate?

It’s difficult to provide a general time frame as there are many things that can affect the process. On average it takes about three to six months to get the necessary paperwork for the Probate Register but it can take longer - more than a year in some cases if the estate is complicated. The Administration Period is the time from the date of death until the estate has been fully distributed. We’ll regularly update you the other Personal Representatives (PRs) to keep you informed of progress throughout this period.

Step one

Once your probate adviser is appointed, work begins to determine the value of the estate:

• Gather information from the Personal Representatives (PRs) – (one-two months).
• Ascertain liabilities - (one-two months).
• Obtain valuations – (one-two months, dependent on the assets and financial institutions involved).

Step two

When all the relevant information is available: 

• Prepare the Inheritance Tax (IHT) Account – (two– three weeks after all of the information is available).
• Prepare tax returns to the date of death – (three-four weeks after receipt of the information).
• Prepare the probate application – (two– three weeks).

Unless the estate is complex, typically, step one and two takes between two-three months to complete

Step three

Once the executors have approved the IHT Account and probate papers:

• Inheritance Tax Probate Summary submitted to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), together with the IHT Account (within one week of receipt of the approved papers from the Personal Representatives).

Step four

• Probate Application submitted - after HMRC issue the clearance certificate or (currently) 20 working days after HMRC receive the IHT Account (if earlier).

Note: The Probate Registry advise not to send the application earlier as it may cause delays.

Step five

• Obtaining the Grant of Representation (GOR) to be issued (four-eight weeks).

Step six

When the GOR is received:

• Collect assets - (three months – one year).
• Settle liabilities - (three-four weeks after receipt of all the information). 
• Prepare accounts - (three weeks – one month from when the appropriate information is available).
• Register the Estate on The Trust Register (if appropriate) – (one-two weeks).
• Prepare estate tax return(s), if required - (three-four weeks after receipt of the information).
• Assent/transfer of assets to beneficiaries – (two-three months to years).

Typically, this step takes between three months to one year to complete when dealing with non-complex estates. 

If you're dealing with a death and looking for practical support for any stage of obtaining probate or administering an estate, please fill in the form below and one of our experts will be in touch to discuss your requirements and how we can help, with professional advice tailored to your unique circumstances.