How to apply for a Grant
DIY application for a Grant
First, make sure that you are entitled to apply for a Grant. See section on Executor (where there is a Will) or Administrator (where there is no Will) for advice
- Get the forms from the Probate Registry nearest to you (see Probate Registries) or click on the link on the Court web site at www.courtservice.gov.uk/cms/wills.htm and print off the form PA1 (under Forms & Leaflets) plus notes (PA1a) if needed and web site www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk/cto/pa1.htm and print off the form IHT205 plus notes (IHT206) if needed
- Make sure you have the original Will (if there is one) and an original Certified Copy of the Death Certificate (or Coroner's Interim one if awaiting an inquest). Remember not to clip or pin anything to the Will
- Complete the Probate Application Form (PA1) and the tax form IHT205 with all information as they request (use the checklist provided). Call the Probate Registry nearest to you if assistance with completing the forms is required (they will generally avoid dealing with queries requiring Professional advice & help)
- Choose where you wish to be interviewed (to Swear the Oath). This will be at a Probate Registry (see Probate Registries) or any of its sub-offices nearest to you (not nearest to the Deceased's place of death)
- Photocopy all the forms. Then return the forms (PA1 & IHT205), the Will (if there is one), the Death Certificate and the Probate Application Fee (presently £90 plus £1 for each copy Grant, payable to 'H.M. Paymaster General') to your nearest Probate Registry. Use the Post office's Special Guaranteed delivery service. Await confirmation of your interview time from the Probate Registry (up to 10 working days). At some times of the year, there may be a little delay, so be patient
- Attend the interview, following the Probate Registry guidelines. Take your ID
- The Grant will issue by post to your address within 10 days or so