Glossary · UK
What is Grant of Probate?
A legal document confirming an executor's authority to administer and distribute the estate of someone who has died leaving a will.
Full Definition
A grant of probate is the official document issued by the Probate Registry in England and Wales that gives the named executor legal authority to deal with a deceased person's estate -- collecting assets, paying debts, settling tax and distributing what remains under the will. Where there is no will, a similar document called letters of administration is issued instead. Banks, share registrars and the Land Registry usually require sight of the grant before releasing or transferring significant assets. Before probate is granted, the executor must report the estate's value to HMRC and pay any inheritance tax due, which can be partly settled from the estate before the grant is issued. There is a flat application fee (check gov.uk for the current figure), with reduced or waived fees for smaller estates. Probate matters because it protects executors and ensures assets pass correctly. Small estates, jointly owned property and modest bank balances may not need a grant at all.