Minimal Flowchart: UK Probate Application Process
A high-level process map for applying for legal authority to administer an estate.
| START Someone has died and the estate must be dealt with. | ||
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| Check jurisdiction England & Wales: probate or letters of administration Scotland: confirmation Northern Ireland: grant of representation | ||
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| Is legal authority needed? If asset holders require a grant, continue. If assets pass jointly or are below organisation thresholds, probate may not be needed. | ||
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| Will decision point Is there a valid will? | ||
| Yes — valid will Named executor applies for a grant of probate or equivalent authority. | No — no valid will Eligible relative or applicant applies for letters of administration or equivalent authority. | |
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| Gather documents and value the estate Confirm assets, debts, gifts, funeral costs, trusts, overseas assets, and gross and net estate values. | ||
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| Inheritance Tax decision point Does the estate qualify as an excepted estate, require a full IHT account, or have tax to pay? | ||
| Scenario A Excepted estate / no IHT to pay Enter estate values in the probate application and proceed. | Scenario B Full IHT account needed, but no tax due Complete and submit IHT400 and any schedules before applying. | Scenario C IHT is due Complete IHT400, get any required reference or code, and start payment before applying. |
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| Submit application Apply online where available, or by post/court process using the correct jurisdiction forms. | ||
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| Registry or court review The application is checked and more information may be requested. | ||
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| END Grant issued: collect assets, pay debts and tax, then distribute the estate. | ||
Note: Probate rules and terminology differ across the UK. For complex estates, disputes, overseas assets, trusts, or unclear tax position, consider professional legal or tax advice.
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