When a loved one passes away, navigating the legal and financial aspects of their estate can be a daunting and emotionally charged experience. One of the most common questions families face during this period is: How long does probate take in the UK? While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, understanding the probate process and the factors that influence its duration can provide some much-needed clarity and reassurance during a challenging time. At Premier Solicitors, we are committed to guiding you through every stage of probate, ensuring that you feel supported and well-informed. As of 2025, there have been notable improvements in how quickly probate applications are processed, particularly due to increased digitisation and system reforms. Nonetheless, the length of the probate process can still vary depending on a range of circumstances.
Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person's estate is administered. This involves collecting their assets, settling any outstanding debts and taxes, and distributing what remains to the rightful beneficiaries.
If the deceased left a valid will, the individual named as executor in the will is responsible for applying for a grant of probate. This grant provides the legal authority to manage the estate.
In cases where there is no will, a close relative can apply for letters of administration. This essentially serves the same purpose, although the law dictates who can apply and who is entitled to inherit.
The importance of probate cannot be understated. Without it, financial institutions, government bodies and other relevant parties may not release funds or assets, making it impossible to administer the estate.
While every estate is unique, probate in the UK typically unfolds over several stages. Each stage has its own timeframe, and delays at one stage can extend the overall process.
1. Post-Death Administration (5 to 14 days)
This is the initial phase following death. The death must be registered, funeral arrangements made, and essential documents gathered. These include the death certificate and, where available, the original will. While emotionally demanding, this stage is usually completed within a week or two.
2. Pre-Application Preparation (4 to 12 weeks)
Before probate can be applied for, the estate must be assessed. Executors must determine the value of all assets, including property, bank accounts, investments, pensions and personal belongings. They must also account for any debts owed. If the estate is liable for inheritance tax, the appropriate forms (usually IHT205 or IHT400) must be completed and submitted to HM Revenue & Customs. Depending on the estate's complexity and the availability of information, this process can take between one and three months.
3. Valuing the Estate (from 2 weeks onwards)
Accurate valuations are crucial, especially for estates with significant property, business interests or foreign assets. Straightforward estates may be valued within a couple of weeks, but more complicated cases can take several months. Delays are often caused by slow responses from financial institutions or difficulties in assessing the current market value of assets.
4. Submitting the Probate Application (1 - 3 days)
Once all documentation and tax forms are ready, the probate application can be submitted online or by post. Thanks to digital advancements, the majority of applications, around 80% as of 2025, are now submitted online, streamlining the process.
5. Receiving the Grant of Probate (up to 16 weeks)
The waiting period for probate approval has significantly decreased in recent years. As of early 2025, digital applications are often approved within four to eight weeks, with some processed in as little as two weeks. Paper applications, however, may still take up to 13.5 weeks or longer, particularly if there are issues with the documentation or queries from the probate registry.
6. Administering the Estate (6 to 12 months)
Once probate is granted, the executors can begin administering the estate. This includes collecting funds, selling or transferring property, settling any outstanding debts and distributing the remaining assets in accordance with the will or intestacy rules.
The administration period can range from a few months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the estate and any legal or practical issues that arise.
Several factors can either expedite or significantly delay the probate process.
Complexity of the Estate
Estates with straightforward financial arrangements, such as a single property and one or two bank accounts, are usually processed faster. In contrast, estates involving foreign assets, business interests, trusts or multiple properties require more extensive investigation and documentation, inevitably increasing the timeline.
Inheritance Tax Requirements
Where inheritance tax is due, payment must be made, or arrangements put in place, before probate is granted. Delays in valuing the estate, obtaining funds or completing IHT forms can all extend the process. In some cases, certain assets must be sold to fund the tax payment, which may not be straightforward.
Family Disputes and Will Contests
Unfortunately, disputes among beneficiaries or challenges to the will can lead to lengthy legal proceedings. Contested probate cases can delay administration by several months, or even years, in extreme cases.
Errors or Incomplete Applications
One of the most common causes of delay is the submission of incomplete or inaccurate documentation. Missing pages, incorrectly filled forms, or damaged original wills can result in the application being stopped by the probate registry. Each stoppage requires additional time to resolve and often doubles the processing time.
Executor Complications
If the named executor is unwilling or unable to act, or if there is disagreement among co-executors, the court may need to intervene. Appointing a new executor or administrator can add weeks or even months to the process.
The probate system in England and Wales has undergone notable modernisation. As of 2025, the government's move towards digitisation has resulted in considerably faster processing times for online applications. With around 80% of applications now processed digitally, average wait times for grants of probate have been reduced to just over four weeks in many straightforward cases. The system's efficiency is particularly evident when all required documents are accurate and submitted promptly.
However, while the digital platform has improved turnaround times, it is not immune to delays. Technical issues, document discrepancies or incomplete submissions can still lead to complications. It is vital to approach the application process carefully and methodically.
There are several practical steps that executors can take to reduce the likelihood of delays:
- Ensure all documentation is accurate and complete - Carefully check all forms, provide full asset information, and include original documents where required.
- Address inheritance tax obligations early - Promptly complete and submit the relevant IHT forms, and make necessary payments to avoid delays in the granting of probate.
- Consider professional legal assistance - An experienced probate solicitor can help navigate the complexities of the process, prepare documents correctly and manage communications with HMRC and the probate registry.
- Maintain clear communication with beneficiaries - Keeping beneficiaries informed can reduce the risk of disputes and misunderstandings, facilitating a smoother administration process.
While recent changes to the probate system have made the process more efficient, it is still one that requires patience, diligence and proper preparation. On average, the probate process in the UK takes between six and twelve months from the date of death to the final distribution of the estate. Some estates may be resolved more quickly, while others, particularly those with complicating factors, may take longer.
Premier Solicitors is a leading UK law firm staffed by regulated solicitors devoted to providing a professional and affordable legal service in a comprehensive range of legal services, such as probate and estate administration.
For more information, please call us on 01234 358 080 or visit our contact page to send an enquiry form.
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