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This note explains the equivalent processes in England and Wales to what is commonly called a “succession certificate” in other jurisdictions. In England and Wales the relevant legal route is a grant of representation: a grant of probate (where there is a valid will) or a grant of letters of administration (where there is not). The guidance below summarises the practical steps, timing and documents you are likely to need in 2025.

Which document do you need?

Executors named in a will apply for a grant of probate. Where the deceased died intestate (without a valid will), the person entitled under the rules of intestacy applies for letters of administration. Many third parties (banks, registrars, registries) will usually require a grant of representation before transferring assets or releasing funds.

Key steps to obtain a grant of representation

1. Register the death with the local registrar and obtain the death certificate.
2. Locate the original will and any codicils. Determine who the executors are.
3. Value the estate: identify and value assets (bank accounts, real property, shares, personal chattels) and liabilities as at date of death.
4. Address inheritance tax (IHT): complete the relevant IHT forms (for example IHT205 or IHT400) and arrange payment or obtain clearance where applicable.
5. Prepare the probate application: application form(s), original will, oath or statement of truth, probate fee and the IHT acknowledgement reference.
6. Submit the application to the Probate Registry (online or by post) and pay the fee. In straightforward estates the online route is generally the fastest.
7. On receipt of the grant, use it to collect assets, close accounts, transfer title and distribute in accordance with the will or intestacy rules.

Practical checklist for executors and administrators

• Collect the death certificate and register the death promptly.
• Secure the deceased’s paperwork: wills, deeds, bank statements, share certificates, insurance policies and pensions paperwork.
• Prepare a simple statement of assets and liabilities with estimated values.
• Check for secured loans or mortgages against property and notify lenders.
• Contact HMRC early to discuss inheritance tax liabilities and required forms.
• Decide whether to instruct probate specialists where estates are complex, cross-border or litigious.
• Keep an auditable file of correspondence and a log of estate transactions.

Timing, costs and common pitfalls

Timing varies. If IHT is due and paid promptly, a straightforward grant is often issued within 4–12 weeks of application. Complex estates, missing beneficiaries or disputes can extend this considerably. Costs include probate fees, estate administration costs, professional adviser fees and any IHT. Common pitfalls include failing to value assets correctly, missing trusts or pensions that fall outside the estate, and not checking for foreign assets that may need parallel processes abroad.

Jurisdiction and sources

• GOV.UK – Apply for probate
• GOV.UK – After a death: organising a will
• HM Revenue & Customs – Inheritance tax
• The National Archives – Wills and probate records

Note: Scotland uses a distinct process (Confirmation) and different documents; Northern Ireland operates its own court system for grants. This note addresses only England and Wales.

General information only; not legal advice and not a substitute for advice on a particular matter.