Free, No-Obligation Guidance

Do I need probate?

Not every estate requires probate. Take our quick assessment to find out where you stand, in about two minutes, with no obligation.

The Short Answer

When probate is usually required

Whether you need probate depends largely on what the person owned and how it was held. As a general guide, probate is typically needed when the estate includes property, or significant assets held in the deceased's sole name.

  • The deceased owned property or land in their sole name
  • Bank or investment accounts hold above the provider's probate threshold
  • Stocks, shares or significant savings are involved
  • Assets need to be sold, transferred or formally distributed

Probate is often not required where assets were jointly owned and pass automatically to a surviving co-owner, or where the estate is very small.

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Next Steps

Once you know, we'll take it from here

Whichever route applies to your situation, our specialists handle the process end to end.

There is a valid will

Probate With a Will

The executor named in the will applies for a Grant of Probate. We manage the paperwork and ensure the estate is distributed as intended.

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No will was left

Probate Without a Will

The estate passes under the rules of intestacy and the closest relative applies for Letters of Administration. We guide you through every step.

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Take The Assessment

Do you need probate? Find out in 2 minutes

Answer a few simple questions about the estate. This is a free, no-obligation guide, not formal legal advice, but it will tell you where you likely stand.

Question 1 of 5

Did the person who died own a property (a house or flat) in their own name?

Question 2 of 5

Roughly how much was held in bank accounts, savings or investments in their sole name?

Question 3 of 5

Did they hold stocks, shares or investment bonds in their sole name?

Question 4 of 5

Were most of their assets owned jointly with a spouse or partner who is still living?

Question 5 of 5

Has a bank, insurer or other organisation already asked you for a Grant of Probate?

Probate is likely to be required

Based on your answers, this estate has features that usually mean a Grant of Probate is needed, such as sole-name property, accounts or investments. This is exactly what we handle every day, on clear fixed fees. Send us a few details below and we'll be in touch, or call if that's easier.

Prefer to talk? Call 0203 884 3127

It could go either way, let us check for you

Your answers sit in the grey area where probate is sometimes required and sometimes not, it depends on the finer details. A quick, free second opinion will give you a definite answer. Leave your details below, or call us directly.

Prefer to talk? Call 0203 884 3127

Probate may not be required

Based on your answers, this estate may be settled without a Grant of Probate, for example where assets passed automatically to a surviving joint owner, or the estate is small. If you'd like that confirmed for peace of mind, we're happy to take a quick look at no cost.

Have a question? Call 0203 884 3127

Your details are confidential and never shared.

Ready When You Are

Start your probate application today

Begin online in a few simple steps. Tell us about the estate and a dedicated specialist will take it from there, with clear fixed fees and no obligation.

Start Your Application → or call 0203 884 3127

Let us be your trusted guide

Take the first step towards settling the estate with confidence. Begin your Probate application today.