How to Apply for Probate Online: A Simple Guide

Obtaining probate is an essential step when administering the estate of someone who has died with assets that require legal authority to access and distribute. In England and Wales, executors or close relatives can apply for a grant of probate (if there is a will) or letters of administration (if there is no valid will). This article provides clear, step‑by‑step guidance on how to apply for probate online, what you need before you start, and what to expect during the process.

What Probate Is and Why You Would Apply Online

Probate is the legal authority granted by HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) that allows an executor or administrator to deal with a deceased person's property, money and possessions (their estate). Applying online means submitting your application using the official government probate online service, which can be faster and more efficient than applying by post. 

You can apply online for:

• A grant of probate where the person left a valid will and you are named as executor.
• Letters of administration with will annexed where the will exists but no executor is applying.
• Letters of administration (intestate) where there is no valid will. 

Step 1 – Prepare Before You Start

Register the Death

Before applying, you must ensure the death is registered with the local register office. You will need the death certificate (original or interim from a coroner) for your application and to deal with banks and other institutions. 

Value the Estate and Report to HMRC

You must estimate the value of the estate and determine whether inheritance tax (IHT) is payable. If the estate is not “excepted” (very small or simple), you generally need to submit a full IHT400 form to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) before applying for probate. Once HMRC processes the IHT400, they will send you a unique HMRC code and details of the estate's net and gross values that you must use in your online application. 

If no IHT is payable and the estate is simple, different reporting may apply, but you still need to confirm whether HMRC requires any form before applying. 

Step 2 – Create an Online Probate Account

To begin your application online, go to the official probate service and create an account using your own email address and personal details. This account allows you to start a new application, save progress, or return to an existing application later. 

You must use your own email address, even if someone (such as a family member or adviser) helps you complete the application. HMCTS will only discuss the case with the registered applicant. 

Step 3 – Complete the Online Probate Application

Once registered and logged in, you will carry out the following:

1. Enter Deceased Person Details

Provide personal information about the deceased, including:

• Full name and any aliases
• Date and place of death
• Last address
• Marital status and family information

2. Select the Type of Application

Choose the correct form based on whether a valid will exists and who is applying:

• Grant of probate (with will, executors applying)
• Letters of administration with will annexed
• Letters of administration (intestate) 

3. Enter Estate Values and HMRC Code

Use the HMRC unique code and the gross and net values provided by HMRC after processing the IHT400. These figures and the code are required to proceed with the probate application. 

4. Complete Legal Statements

You will be required to complete a statement of truth, affirming that the information you've given is correct. This is a legal declaration and must be accurate. 

5. Review and Submit

After checking all information carefully, submit your application online and pay the probate application fee. The standard fee is:

• £300 for estates over £5,000
• No fee if the estate is valued at £5,000 or less
• A reduced fee (£21) for a second grant in the same estate. 

You will automatically receive one free copy of the grant; additional copies cost extra and must be requested during the application. 

Step 4 – What Happens After Submission

Payment and Documents

Once submitted, you must pay the fee online by debit or credit card. After submitting, you will be told what supporting documents HMCTS requires (for example, the original will, death certificate, and other supporting evidence). Some documents may need to be posted to the Probate Registry even though the application was made online. 

Tracking Progress

The online service allows you to track the progress of your probate application. Processing times vary, but simple estates may receive the grant within around 12 weeks, though complex estates or administrative backlogs may take longer. 

You can also contact the Probate Service Centre if you need updates: HMCTS provides a helpline and email contact. 

Common Challenges and What to Watch For

HMRC Waiting Period

You must not submit your probate application until HMRC has issued the unique code. If you apply early, it may be rejected or delayed. 

Document Requirements

Even if you apply online, you may need to send original documents by post to the Probate Registry after submitting your application. Completing these steps promptly helps avoid processing delays. 

Fee Assistance

If you or the estate has a low income or you receive certain benefits, you may qualify for help with probate fees or a fee waiver. Information on fee assistance is provided during the online process. 

Summary and Practical Guidance

Applying for probate online in England and Wales is increasingly the default route for executors and administrators of estates:

• Ensure a death is registered and the estate's value is reported to HMRC before applying. 
• Use the official online service to create an account, complete and submit the application, and pay fees. 
• Include accurate details of estate values and the unique HMRC code in your application. 
• Be prepared to post required original documents after online submission. 
• Track progress through the online portal and respond promptly to any requests from HMCTS. 

Completing the probate application online can help streamline the process and provide clearer visibility of progress, but thorough preparation and accurate information remain essential to avoid delays.