How long does probate take in the UK?
Probate typically takes between 6 and 12 months, but this depends on the estate size, complexity, and whether there are delays. This guide covers realistic timescales and what you can expect at each stage.
This guide is for general information only. It is not legal, financial, or tax advice. Timescales can vary. For decisions specific to your situation, speak to a qualified solicitor, accountant, or financial adviser.
A typical probate timeline
For a straightforward estate, probate follows roughly this timeline:
- Weeks 1 to 2: Register the death and obtain death certificates.
- Weeks 2 to 4: Notify organisations and gather information about the estate.
- Weeks 4 to 8: Prepare the probate application and supporting documents.
- Weeks 8 to 12: Submit the application to the Probate Service.
- Weeks 12 to 20: Probate Service reviews and (if approved) grants probate.
- Weeks 20 to 30: Settle debts and pay any inheritance tax.
- Weeks 30 to 40: Distribute the remaining estate to beneficiaries.
This is an estimate. Straightforward estates can be quicker. Complex estates take much longer.
What affects how long probate takes?
Several factors influence probate duration:
- Estate size. Larger estates require more detailed accounting and may trigger inheritance tax, which adds time.
- Estate complexity. Multiple properties, business interests, or overseas assets take longer to value and settle.
- Completeness of documentation. Missing documents (like property deeds or share certificates) cause delays.
- Beneficiary disputes. Disagreements over the will or estate distribution can delay settlement significantly.
- Probate Service workload. During busy periods, processing times can extend.
- Professional help. Using a solicitor can speed up application and administration, though it takes time to brief them.
Probate application stage (4 to 8 weeks)
Before you apply for probate, you must gather information about everything the deceased owned and owed.
You then complete the probate application form, declaring the total value of the estate. The Probate Service checks this information against their records. If everything is in order, they issue the grant of probate within 4 to 8 weeks of submission. Applications with missing documents or errors take longer.
After the grant is issued, you can begin distributing the estate, though you must first settle debts and taxes.
Can you speed up probate?
There is no fast-track probate process, but you can avoid delays by:
- Gathering all documents and information before applying.
- Submitting a complete application with no missing forms or signatures.
- Responding promptly to any requests from the Probate Service for additional information.
- Using a solicitor to handle the application if you are unfamiliar with the process.
- Communicating clearly with beneficiaries so disputes do not delay matters.
If the estate is small (thresholds typically range from £5,000 to £15,000 depending on the institution), some financial institutions allow simplified procedures that bypass probate entirely.
Common causes of probate delays
The most frequent delays are:
- Missing documents (wills, deeds, share certificates, bank account details).
- Difficulty valuing assets, especially property or business interests.
- Inheritance tax calculations and payment, which can take weeks.
- Banks or other organisations slow to release account information or funds.
- Disputes among beneficiaries over the will or how the estate should be distributed.
- Probate Service backlog during peak periods.
Probate in Scotland and Northern Ireland
In Scotland, probate is called confirmation and the process differs slightly. Applications are made to the Sheriff Court. Timescales are broadly similar, typically 6 to 12 months.
In Northern Ireland, probate follows a similar process to England and Wales but is administered by the District Probate Registry. Timescales are comparable.
Contact your local register office or Citizens Advice for specific guidance if the deceased died in Scotland or Northern Ireland.
What to expect while you wait
While probate is being processed, you cannot distribute the estate to beneficiaries. However, you can use estate funds to pay reasonable costs, such as funeral bills, household bills, and professional fees.
Beneficiaries may ask when they will receive their inheritance. A rough estimate based on your timeline will help manage expectations. Be honest if delays occur.
Keep detailed records of all expenditure and communications with beneficiaries and the Probate Service.
Getting help with probate
If probate is taking longer than expected, contact the Probate Service directly to check on your application status. You can find contact details on gov.uk.
Citizens Advice can offer guidance on what to do if there are delays or disputes.
A solicitor can manage the entire probate process on your behalf, which often results in fewer delays and less stress.