Grant of Letters of Administration UK – What Is the Procedure and Who Needs It

When someone dies without leaving a valid will, their estate must still be managed and distributed. In the UK, this is done through a Grant of Letters of Administration. This legal document gives authority to an appointed person, known as an administrator, to deal with the deceased’s assets and debts.

A grant of letters of administration is a legal order issued by the Probate Registry. It serves as proof that the administrator has the right to manage the estate. Without this grant, banks, building societies, and other institutions usually won’t release money or transfer property.

Who Needs a Grant of Letters of Administration?

You may need this grant if:

·         The deceased died intestate (without a will).

·         The will is invalid or does not name executors.

·         The named executors are unable or unwilling to act.

The administrator is usually a close relative, following a strict order of priority: spouse or civil partner, then children, parents, siblings, and so on.

The Procedure for Applying

Identify entitlement – Check if you are eligible to apply under the intestacy rules.

·         Value the estate – Work out the total worth of the assets and liabilities.

·         Complete forms – This includes the probate application form (PA1A) and inheritance tax forms.

·         Pay fees and tax – Probate fees and any inheritance tax due must be settled.

·         Submit the application – Send the completed forms to the Probate Registry.

·         Receive the grant – Once approved, you can legally manage and distribute the estate.

The grant of letters of administration is vital for handling estates without a valid will. While the process can seem complex, understanding the steps and eligibility helps ensure the estate is managed lawfully and fairly.