Register For Probate

Establish whether or not there is a valid Will (if there is no Will, there is a different process and you must follow the Rules of Intestacy).

Obtain copies of the Death Certificate from the Local Registry Office

Value the Estate and report it to HMRC. This will usually include needing to contact: Banks and Building Societies, Insurance Providers, Former/Current Employers, Pension Providers, NS&I, Investment Companies, the Land Registry (to establish whether a property is held as joint tenants or tenants in common), Any companies where shares have been issued, the DVLA, Utility Companies and The Local Council

First payment of Inheritance Tax is due 6 months from date of death (where applicable)

Apply for Probate (this may require you to attend the London Probate Office)

Advertise for Creditors under Section 27 of the 1925 Trustees Act

Pay any Inheritance Tax that’s due

Collect the Estate’s assets (for example money from the sale of the person’s property)

Arrange for the conveyance of the sale/transfer of any property

Settle any outstanding debts (like unpaid utility bills)

Make a record of ‘Estate Accounts’ of how any money, property or possessions will be split

Distribute the Estate to the people/parties named in the Will/ as per the Rules of Intestacy