In the UK, probate can now take as little as 6 to 12 months from beginning to end, but may be faster for less complex estates and much longer in others. One of the most common misconceptions about probate is that it only involves “filling in a form” – unfortunately, this is not the reality, and it can be held up at any stage.
A realistic probate timeline for simple estates:
In the research stage (2 – 6 weeks): locating and valuing assets, compiling a list of debts, and contacting banks. For help with Probate Leicester, visit //beesandco.com/our-services/probate/leicester/
Step 2. Apply for the grant (4 – 16+ weeks): Send in your probate application and any Inheritance Tax (IHT) forms
Administration after the grant (approximately from 3 to 6 months): closing accounts, selling assets, and paying off debts before distributing what is left of the estate.
If there is a property to sell, that in itself can add months due to the market and conveyancing.
What slows probate down?
Common causes of delay include:
Unknown/unclaimed accounts and paperwork, like shareholdings and pensions.
Re-evaluated property valuation or contradictory data production.
Complex tax – Inheritance tax, especially gifts/trusts, or on owning more than one property.
Problem executors (more than one, they disagree, or you have a consenting executor who cannot act).
Probate registry enquiries on mismatching or missing forms, etc.
A will in challenge or a family conflict (this may hold up everything).
How to keep it moving
Get a head start, including documentation of everything you have and owe, as well as records of all phone calls and letters sent. Seeking advice is important, particularly when the estate is complex, as your costly errors can further slow things down.