Applying for Probate Online
How to Apply for Probate Online in England & Wales
Applying for probate has become much simpler in recent years, with many executors now able to complete the application online rather than submitting paper forms.
For straightforward estates, the online probate application process is often quicker, easier and more convenient. However, before starting an application, it's important to understand who can apply, what information you'll need and the situations where professional legal advice may still be appropriate.
This guide explains everything you need to know about applying for probate online in England and Wales.
Can You Apply for Probate Online?
Yes.
Many executors can apply for probate online if the deceased left a valid will and the estate meets the eligibility requirements for an online application.
The online service allows executors to submit their probate application electronically and track progress more easily than traditional paper applications.
Although the application itself can often be completed online, you’ll still need to gather important legal and financial information before you begin.
Who Can Apply for Probate Online?
You can usually apply online if:
- You are named as an executor in the deceased’s valid will.
- You are aged 18 or over.
- The deceased lived in England or Wales.
- You have access to the original signed will.
- You have valued the estate.
- Any required Inheritance Tax obligations have been dealt with.
If the estate is particularly complex, professional advice may still be advisable before submitting an application.
What You'll Need Before You Start
Preparing everything in advance makes the application process much smoother.
You should have:
- The original signed will
- Certified copies of the death certificate
- Property valuations
- Bank account balances
- Investment values
- Pension information
- Details of debts
- Mortgage balances
- Funeral expenses
- Your own identification details
Taking time to gather accurate information before starting helps reduce delays.
Step 1 – Register the Death
Before applying for probate, the death must be officially registered.
You’ll need certified copies of the death certificate when contacting banks, insurers and other organisations.
Step 2 – Locate the Original Will
The Probate Registry usually requires the original signed will.
Check that:
- It is the latest version.
- It has been signed correctly.
- It names you as executor.
- Any codicils are included.
If the original will cannot be found, you should obtain legal advice before applying.
Step 3 – Value the Estate
Before beginning the online application, you’ll need to calculate the value of the estate.
This includes all:
Assets
- Property
- Savings
- Investments
- Shares
- Vehicles
- Jewellery
- Business interests
- Personal possessions
Debts
- Mortgages
- Loans
- Credit cards
- Utility bills
- Tax owed
Accurate valuations are essential, particularly where Inheritance Tax may apply.
Step 4 – Complete Inheritance Tax Requirements
Before probate can usually be granted, you’ll need to complete the appropriate Inheritance Tax requirements.
Depending on the estate:
- No tax may be due.
- Tax may need to be paid.
- Additional information may be required by HMRC.
Completing this stage before applying helps prevent delays.
Step 5 – Complete the Online Application
The online application will ask for information including:
- Details about the deceased
- Details about the executor
- Estate valuation
- Information about the will
- Tax information
Take your time and check all information carefully before submitting.
Incorrect information can delay the application.
Step 6 – Submit Your Application
Once you’ve completed the online form, you’ll submit your application together with any required supporting documents.
Depending on your circumstances, you may also need to send the original will to the Probate Registry.
After submission, you’ll receive confirmation that your application has been received.
What Happens After You Apply?
The Probate Registry reviews your application.
If everything is correct, a Grant of Probate will be issued.
If additional information is required, you’ll normally be contacted before the application can proceed.
Once probate has been granted, you’ll have the legal authority to administer the estate.
What Can You Do Once Probate Is Granted?
After receiving the Grant of Probate, you’ll normally be able to:
- Close bank accounts
- Collect savings
- Sell or transfer property
- Cash investments
- Pay debts
- Settle taxes
- Distribute inheritance
Keep detailed records of every transaction made on behalf of the estate.
Advantages of Applying for Probate Online
Many executors prefer the online process because it offers several benefits.
These include:
- Convenient application from home
- Straightforward step-by-step process
- Reduced paperwork
- Faster submission
- Easier progress tracking
- Less risk of incomplete paper forms
For straightforward estates, online applications are often the simplest option.
Common Mistakes When Applying for Probate
Before submitting your online application, check that you haven’t:
- Used incorrect estate valuations.
- Forgotten assets.
- Missed outstanding debts.
- Entered incorrect personal details.
- Submitted incomplete tax information.
- Failed to locate the original will.
- Included outdated financial information.
Reviewing your application carefully can save weeks of unnecessary delays.
When Should You Use a Probate Solicitor?
Although many executors successfully apply online themselves, professional legal advice may be worthwhile where:
- The estate is valuable.
- There are several properties.
- Overseas assets are involved.
- Inheritance Tax is payable.
- The will may be disputed.
- Business interests form part of the estate.
- Family members disagree.
A probate solicitor can prepare the application, communicate with financial institutions and manage the administration of the estate from start to finish.
How Find a Funeral Can Help
Applying for probate online can save time and simplify the administration of an estate, but it’s important to ensure everything is completed correctly. At Find a Funeral, we provide practical guidance to help executors understand every stage of the probate process.
If you’d rather leave the legal work to a professional, we can also help you compare trusted probate solicitors across the UK who can manage the entire probate application and estate administration on your behalf.
For many straightforward estates, the online process is more efficient than submitting paper applications, although overall timescales still depend on the complexity of the estate.
Yes. Multiple executors can usually apply together if they wish.
Yes. The original signed will is generally required during the probate process.
Yes. Many executors successfully apply for probate themselves, although professional advice is recommended for more complex estates.
The Probate Registry may request further information or corrections, which can delay the application.