How long does probate take?

Provided there are no complications, it usually takes around four to eight weeks to obtain the Grant of Probate (the ‘Grant’) after the application has been submitted.

Once the Grant has been issued, the length of time required to administer the estate and distribute the deceased’s assets will depend on the complexity of the estate. For a straightforward estate (without property), it will probably take four to six months. For more complicated estates (with property to sell, multiple investments and/or overseas assets), the probate process is likely to take around 12 months to complete.

If the estate is subject to inheritance tax (‘IHT’), the timescale is likely to be longer whilst HMRC reviews the IHT account, raises any enquiries that they may have and, finally, issues ‘clearance’ to confirm that all the IHT that is due has been paid.

In our next blog we will look at the cost of the probate process but if you have any questions relating to probate or your own Will or tax planning requirements, please contact Flora Nelmes at flora.nelmes@hunterslaw.com or call 0207 412 0050.