Probate & Estate Administration
Losing a loved one is difficult enough without having to navigate complex legal processes.
At Pure Legacy, we provide clear, supportive guidance to help you manage probate and estate administration with confidence. We’re here to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.
What is Probate?
Probate is the legal process of administering an estate after someone has passed away.
This includes:
- Identifying and valuing assets
- Applying for a Grant of Probate (where required)
- Paying debts, taxes and expenses
- Distributing the estate to beneficiaries
The process ensures that the estate is handled properly and that the deceased’s wishes are carried out.
The Role of an Executor
Probate is the legal process of administering an estaAn Executor is responsible for managing the estate and ensuring everything is dealt with correctly.
This often involves applying for a Grant of Probate, dealing with financial institutions, settling liabilities, and distributing the estate in accordance with the Will.
It can be a complex and time-consuming role, especially during an already difficult time.
Professional Executor Services
If you do not have a suitable person to act as Executor, or would prefer not to place that responsibility on family or friends, we can be appointed to act as a professional Executor.
In this role, we take full responsibility for administering the estate, including dealing with assets, liaising with institutions, managing property, and ensuring all legal and tax obligations are met.
This can also involve practical matters where required, such as attending the property, securing assets, and locating important documents.
Our fees for acting as a professional Executor are charged to the estate and are assessed during the administration period, based on the size, complexity and level of work involved.
What is a Grant of Probate?
The Grant of Probate is the official legal document that gives an Executor the authority to act on behalf of the estate. It confirms the validity of the Will and is generally required before completing most estate administration tasks, such as:
Selling or transferring property
Closing bank accounts
Transferring investments
When is a Grant of Probate needed?
A Grant of Probate is not always needed, but is typically required where:
- Property is held in the deceased’s sole name
- Property is held as tenants-in-common where both owners have passed
- Bank accounts exceed certain thresholds (£30,000–£50,000, depending on the bank)
- Bonds, NS&I investments, or stocks and shares over the value set by each institution
- Certain life insurance policies that form part of the estate
Additional Considerations Beyond the Will
When administering an estate, Executors often need to consider assets not explicitly distributed by the Will.
Many Wills include trusts to provide extra protection for beneficiaries and help manage the estate effectively. Trustees (often the Executors) have specific duties, including:
- Registering the trust with HMRC within 90 days of the death to comply with tax requirements
- Updating the Land Registry if the trust includes property, so ownership details are correct
- Safeguarding and managing trust assets responsibly to benefit the intended beneficiaries
Proper management of Will trusts is crucial to ensure compliance, protect beneficiaries, and prevent disputes.
Other considerations include:
- Jointly held assets – Property or accounts held as joint tenants pass automatically to the surviving owner, outside of probate.
- Life insurance policies and pensions – Some proceeds pass directly to named beneficiaries rather than through the estate.
- Gifts made before death – Large gifts given within seven years of death may affect Inheritance Tax.
- Digital assets and online accounts – Some platforms may require proof of death or Grant of Probate to release access.
How the Process Works
1. Valuation of the Estate
Identify and value all assets and liabilities within the estate.
2. Application for Grant of Probate & Submission of Inheritance Tax (IHT) Account
Prepare and submit the Probate application and IHT account to HMRC, including payment of any tax due (where applicable).
3. Collection of Estate Assets
Closure or transfer of estate assets, including property and investments
4. Conveyancing & Land Registry Work
Update Land Registry records where required and deal with any property-related matters, including trusts or deeds of variation if appropriate.
5. Payment of Debts & Testamentary Expenses
Settle all outstanding liabilities, including debts, funeral costs and administration expenses.
6. Estate Accounts
Prepare detailed estate accounts showing all income, expenditure and distributions for the Executors and beneficiaries.
7. Distribution to Beneficiaries
Distribute the estate in accordance with the Will once all obligations have been met.
We Are Here to Help
We understand this is a difficult time, don’t go through it alone. We’re a family-run business, and we know how important it is to be treated with care and understanding — especially at a time like this.
Get in touch today and let us support you through the process.
How much does Probate cost?
Executor Support & Probate Assistance
Included within the Lifetime Service Packages
Full administration
We charge a percentage-based fee, agreed individually for each estate, plus VAT and disbursements. This is based on the size and complexity of the estate
Professional Executor Services
Where we are appointed to act as a professional Executor, our fees are charged to the estate and are assessed during the administration period, based on the size, complexity and level of work involved.
Notifying Us of a Loved One’s Passing
If you need to inform us of a death, please provide the following documents by email or post:
- Death certificate
- Proof of ID and address of the Executor making the request (e.g., passport, driving licence, or a utility bill dated within the last 3 months)
- A signed cover letter from the Executor, including up-to-date contact details
If you are contacting us on behalf of the Executor, please include a signed letter of authority from the Executor with your correspondence.
Email: admin@purelegacy.co.uk
Post: Pure Legacy Ltd, PO Box 6308, Windsor SL4 9JF