Report a will is lost to support a probate application: Form PA13
Use this form to report that an original will is lost and you’re applying for probate. You must only use this form if you're representing yourself.
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Use this form to tell HMCTS an original will is lost and to include it when you apply for probate. Only use this form if you are representing yourself and the will has not been revoked.
If you’re an executor, you may need to complete this form if you:
- cannot find the original will but have a photocopy of it
- sent the original will by post and the courier lost it
- found out a solicitor has mislaid the original will
If you are a probate practitioner do not complete this form. You must provide an affidavit or statement of truth and exhibits to lead to a R54 NPCR 1987 order to prove the will is lost.
Apply for probate
Send this form in with your probate application if:
- you have a copy of the lost will
- you swear an affidavit confirming what was in the will - seek legal advice if you’re not sure what to put in an affidavit
The will is invalid if:
- it was created by the person who created the will ‘testator’ but they did not sign it or no one witnessed it and
- there’s no other will
You may also be asked to send this form in separately from your probate application. This could happen if you send in a copy of a will, instead of the original.
How to report a lost will
- Download the form.
- Fill in all sections.
- Print the form.
- Sign and date the application.
- Send the completed form to:
HMCTS Probate
PO Box 12625
Harlow
CM20 9QE
What happens next
HMCTS will consider the evidence in your application.
If your application is successful, you will be able to apply for probate, if not, you will need to apply for probate when there is not a will (known as intestacy).
Contact us
If you need help completing this form, you can contact us.
Probate helpline
Telephone: 0300 303 0648
Monday to Friday, 9am to 1pm
Closed on weekends and bank holidays
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If the form still does not open, contact hmctsforms@justice.gov.uk.
If you need a printed version contact your local court.
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Updates to this page
Last updated 14 February 2024 + show all updates
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Updated the probate helpline opening times.
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Updated phone line opening times
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Added clarity around when users can use this form and wording to explain what happens once the application has been sent.
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Updated phone line opening times
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Updated April's bank holiday week opening times
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Updated opening times for the probate helpline
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Edited the contact us section - The Probate helpline is closed on Saturdays.
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Replaced form and added Welsh version of form.
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Helpline information updated.
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Amended the form and publication page information to make it clearer that the form is for people representing themselves only.
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First published.