When someone passes away, with or without leaving a Will, then their money, property and other possessions need to be dealt with and given to the beneficiaries.

This is done by the Executor named in the Will, or an Administrator if the person died without a Will, but often they are unable to do this until they have obtained a Grant of Probate.  This is an official legal document which gives permission for them to deal with the estate of the person who has passed away.

Whilst you don’t always necessarily need a Grant of Probate, one is almost always needed when the person who has died leaves one or more of the following:

• A House (or land) held in just their own name or as ‘tenants in common’ with someone else
• £5,000 or more in any one bank or building society account – although banks and building societies have their own rules as when they need a grant of probate, so this amount may differ
• Stocks or Shares
• Certain insurance policies

If you are unsure as to whether you need a Grant of Probate or not, or have any questions about what happens when someone passes away then please feel free to contact one of our experienced and friendly staff who will be happy to help on 0800 389 7093.