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How to apply for probate by post if there is not a will

Updated 20 January 2025

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/apply-for-probate-by-post-if-there-is-not-a-will/how-to-apply-for-probate-by-post-if-there-is-not-a-will

Who can apply

You can apply to be an administrator of the estate if you are the most entitled inheritor, use this inheritance calculator tool to work who is most entitled.

You can also apply as a probate practitioner on behalf of the administrator.

You cannot apply if you were the partner of the person but were not their spouse or civil partner when they died. You are not automatically entitled to any of their estates unless you are able to make changes to the inheritance.

Apply as an administrator without a probate practitioner

Download the ‘citizen applicants’ form to apply by post.

Alternatively, you can apply for probate online.

Use this guide to help you apply for probate without help from a probate practitioner.

Apply as a probate practitioner

Download the ‘probate practitioners’ form to apply by post. Alternatively, you can apply online if you or your practice have a MyHMCTS account.

Work out who inherits

The law decides who inherits the estate if there is no will. Work out who will inherit.

Before you apply

You will need to:

How to apply

To apply for the letters of administration:

  1. Download the correct paper form.

  2. Fill in all sections that apply.

  3. Print the form.

  4. Sign and date the application.

  5. Include a cheque with your application (see How to pay).

  6. Send your completed form and supporting documents to:

HMCTS Probate
PO Box 12625
Harlow
CM20 9QE

How to pay

You must pay by sending a cheque payable to ‘HM Courts and Tribunals Service’ with your documents.

How long it will take

It can take up to 12 weeks to process your application if there is no delay in receiving your documents.

Contact us

If you have not heard from us after 12 weeks or need help to complete this form, you can contact us.

Probate helpline
0300 303 0648
Monday to Friday, 9am to 1pm
Closed on weekends and bank holidays

Find out about call charges

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