Probate Application Checklist: Documents You Need

When someone dies and their estate requires formal legal administration, executors or administrators normally need to apply for probate (if there is a will) or letters of administration (if there is no will) from the Probate Registry. A successful application depends on submitting the correct documents and information to the court. Knowing which documents are required and why they are needed helps avoid delays in the legal process of administering an estate.

Core Documents Required for Every Probate Application

These are the primary documents and paperwork that most probate applications in England and Wales must include:

1. Death Certificate

You need an official death certificate or coroner's certificate. A certified copy is usually required rather than a photocopy. This establishes the fact of death and is central to the probate application process.

2. Original Will and Codicils (if applicable)

If the deceased left a will, you must submit the original will and any codicils (supplementary amendments) with your probate application. Photocopies are not acceptable for the original probate registry process. Once submitted, the original will becomes part of the public record.

3. Probate Application Form

The correct application form must be completed depending on whether a will exists:

• PA1P: if there is a valid will and you are applying for a grant of probate.
• PA1A: if there is no will and you are applying for letters of administration.

These forms ask for information about the deceased, their assets, beneficiaries and the people applying for the grant.

Inheritance Tax and Estate Valuation Documents

Before applying, you must assess and report the value of the estate and deal with any Inheritance Tax (IHT) obligations:

4. Inheritance Tax Forms

If the estate is not “excepted”, full details must be reported to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) before a probate application can be made. The main forms include:

• IHT400: the Inheritance Tax account detailing asset values, debts, gifts and exemptions.

HMRC will issue confirmation once the forms are processed, and this confirmation (or a reference code) is used in the probate application. Estates above the nil‑rate threshold or with reliefs claimed must complete these forms.

In some simple cases where no Inheritance Tax return is required (for example, “excepted estates” under current rules), a summary form such as the Estate Summary Form NIPF7 may be required instead.

5. Estate Valuation Evidence

Although not always attached directly to the probate application, executors must prepare evidence supporting values given on tax forms, such as:

• Bank statements and savings accounts showing balances.
• Property valuations (professional valuations or market evidence).
• Share certificates and investment statements.
• Details of known debts and liabilities.

These valuations are essential for accurate Inheritance Tax reporting and probate processing.

Practical and Supporting Documents

Beyond the key forms, several supporting documents can be important in processing a probate application:

6. Identification for the Applicant

If you are applying without a legal representative, you may need to verify your identity with acceptable ID as part of the process, particularly for paper applications. This might include passports, driving licences or other forms of official identification.

7. Evidence of Family Relationships

When there is no will and you are applying as an administrator, it may be necessary to prove your relationship to the deceased (for example, using birth or marriage certificates) so that the court can confirm your entitlement. Although not submitted with every application, these documents can be requested by the Probate Registry.

8. Additional Probate Forms

The national probate forms collection includes several supplementary forms that may be needed depending on circumstances, for example:

• PA13: if the original will has been lost.
• PA14: medical certificate form.
• PA11/PA12: powers of attorney forms if someone appointed another person to act on their behalf.
• Forms to renounce executor or administrator rights.

These forms support specific situations and should be completed if applicable to the estate.

Documents for Special or Complex Situations

Certain estates or situations may require additional documentation:

Foreign Wills and Overseas Assets

If the deceased had assets abroad or a will made under foreign law, you may need to submit sealed and certified copies of foreign wills or other legal documents. If they are not in English, certified translations will be required.

Multiple Wills or Conflicting Documents

If more than one will exists or there are previous wills, you may need to provide the additional versions with explanations. This helps the Probate Registry determine which document reflects the deceased's last wishes.

Evidence of Debts and Funeral Costs

Documentation showing outstanding debts, funeral expenses and liabilities helps establish the estate's net value and supports accurate tax reporting. These may not be submitted with the initial application but should be prepared for estate administration after probate is granted.

Organising Documents for a Smooth Application

Compiling and arranging documents in advance helps reduce delays. It is good practice to create a probate file containing all key paperwork and supporting evidence, which may include organised sections for wills, estate valuations, tax forms, bank records, property documents, insurance documents and correspondence. Keeping original legal documents safe and unmarked (not hole‑punched or annotated) is recommended because the Probate Registry requires original versions for its records.

Common Questions

Do I have to send original documents?
Yes, the Probate Registry normally requires the original will and death certificate with a paper application. Digital applications may allow uploads or later posting of originals when requested.

Can I submit photocopies for everything else?
For many supporting documents (such as estate valuations), copies are acceptable, but check guidance on form instructions. Always keep copies of anything you send.

What happens if a document is missing?
If a key document (such as the original will) is missing, there are specific forms (for example, PA13) and procedures to support proving a copy will or applying in special circumstances. It is important to address missing documents early to avoid delays.

Key Takeaways

Applying for probate in England and Wales requires careful assembly of documentation to support the application. Core items include the original death certificate, the original will and codicils (if any), and the correct probate application form (PA1P or PA1A). Executors must also deal with Inheritance Tax reporting using HMRC forms such as the IHT400 or a summary form, and provide accurate estate valuations. Additional supporting documents may be needed for identity verification, family relationships, foreign wills or specific probate situations. Organising all documents clearly and following probate guidance helps ensure the application proceeds with minimal delay.