Can I do Probate by myself?

It is possible to do Probate yourself. Remember that you must ensure all the correct procedures are followed and that you will be responsible for any distributions made to beneficiaries. You must value the Estate, complete the correct HMRC forms and make payment of Inheritance Tax (where applicable).

Remember, if there are Charitable Beneficiaries, this will affect the distribution of the Estate and certain procedures must be followed to ensure compliance with the Charities Act.

Please see the information on Valuing an Estate for more information.

If you require any help or would like to discuss this further, please contact us.

Because of the high value of estates and the fact that many assets are involved, sometimes Probate estates can fall victim to identity fraud. It is the responsibility of the executor to ensure that all beneficiaries can be verified as the intended recipients of the gifts in a Will. If a beneficiary has passed away, it is vital you obtain a death certificate and prove the lineage of children (if required).

If you have a problem locating a beneficiary or verifying identities, please
contact us.

Inheritance Tax nil rate bands: If the death is after 5 April but before 6 August in any one year and the grant of representation is applied for before 6 August of that year, the nil rate band from the previous tax year should be used to decide whether or not the estate is an excepted estate. If the death is between 6 August and 5 April, the nil rate band to use for an excepted estate is the one that applies at the date of death.

Inheritance Tax nil rate bands For transfers on death, the value of an estate above the nil rate band is taxed at the rate of 40%. For lifetime transfers the rate is 20%.

Below is a table outlining the nil rate bands from 1986. You may need this if you are doing probate yourself.

Please contact us with any queries.