It’s vital to know if probate has been granted when dealing with a deceased person’s estate. Probate lets the legal team manage the person’s property, money, and items. You can find a new probate record online about 14 days after it’s given out.
Probate records from 1858 to 1996 are searchable online. But, they’re listed by the year the grant was given, not the year of death. It’s key to check the type of grant when searching, as not all records have a will.
Key Takeaways
- Probate is often not issued until six months after a death in England and Wales.
- A standing search can be made to receive the relevant documentation when probate is granted.
- Open communication is the easiest way to find out if probate has been granted, but it may not always be feasible.
- A Grant of Probate is almost always needed when the deceased leaves assets such as around £20,000 in any one account, stocks or shares, certain insurance policies, or property/land held in their name.
- Executors can apply for probate if named in the Will, and up to four administrators can apply for letters of administration in case of no Will.
How to Find Out if Probate Has Been Granted
Finding out if probate has been granted is key in managing an estate. You can use the government’s Probate Records Search Service to check. Just enter the deceased’s name and date of death. You’ll see if probate was granted and can get a copy of the grant and will for a small fee.
Standing Search for Probate
If probate hasn’t been granted, you can ask for a ‘standing search’ at the Probate Registry. This lets the registry tell you when the grant is ready. You’ll get a copy then. The search is valid for 6 months and might need renewing if the grant takes longer.
These easy steps help you find out about probate and get the documents you need. Whether you’re looking for how to search for probate records, doing an online probate search, or using the probate registry, these methods make it clear how to request a probate search.
The Importance of Knowing if Probate Has Been Granted
Knowing if probate has been granted is key for several reasons. It’s vital for those wanting to challenge a will under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. They have six months from the grant date to make their claim. Also, once granted, the estate’s executors can sell property and cash in assets, then give out legacies to the heirs.
The probate grant includes crucial details like the deceased’s and executor’s info, the will’s date, the grant date, and the estate’s value. This info is essential for managing the estate. It shows the deceased’s finances and gives executors legal power.
Figuring out the estate’s value means looking at property, cash, bank accounts, stocks, valuables, and debts. Executors can use Zoopla, RightMove, local agents, or RICS surveyors to value property. Gifts made in the last 7 years might be taxed and affect the estate’s value, which is key for administration.
Probate solicitors, like ours at MP Estate Planning, can help with valuing the estate and applying for probate. We make estate administration smoother, especially with complex claims or will challenges.
- The NBS offers free probate support services to all UK residents.
- UK callers can reach The NBS at 0800 0246 121, and international callers can contact them at 0191 656 3201.
- The company number for The NBS is 09333323.
- Grant of Probate is needed most of the time, especially for property.
- A Grant of Probate confirms the executor’s legal right to manage the deceased’s estate.
- Typically, executors get the Grant of Probate within eight weeks of applying.
Conclusion
Finding out if probate has been granted is key in managing an estate. You can check online or request a search to see if the grant is in place. It’s vital for executors, beneficiaries, and anyone with an interest in the estate to understand this process.
If you need help with probate or planning an estate, MP Estate Planning is here for you. Our skilled solicitors are experts in the probate process. They ensure your rights are protected and your estate is handled well. Book a consultation with us today.