Glossary · UK
What is Letters of Administration?
A court grant authorising someone to administer the estate of a person who died without a valid will, or without a usable executor.
Full Definition
Letters of administration are a type of grant of representation issued by the Probate Registry in England and Wales. They give legal authority to deal with a deceased person's estate when there is no valid will, or where a will exists but names no executor able and willing to act. The person who applies is called the administrator, usually the closest entitled relative under the intestacy rules. The grant lets them collect assets, pay debts and taxes, and distribute the estate to those legally entitled. The process is similar to obtaining a grant of probate, which applies where there is a valid will with an executor. Before the grant is issued, any inheritance tax due generally must be reported and often paid; the nil-rate band is GBP 325,000 plus a residence nil-rate band of up to GBP 175,000, with 40% above the threshold. Scotland and Northern Ireland use different procedures. Check gov.uk for current application fees and forms.