Form PA1P: Apply for probate by post if there is a will
Apply for probate by post as an executor named in the will of someone who's died or as a beneficiary if there are no executors.
Documents
Details
Download the appropriate paper form to apply for the legal right to manage the estate of someone who has died and left a will by post. You’ll receive a ‘grant of probate’.
Who can apply
You can apply if you are either:
- an ‘executor’, a person named in a will of the person who’s died
- a legal professional representing the executor
Apply as an executor without a solicitor
Download paper form titled ‘for citizens only’ to apply by post. Alternatively, you can apply for probate online
You can use this guide to help you apply for probate without help from a probate specialist.
You may also be able to apply using this form if you are a beneficiary named in the will and there are no executors able to apply for the grant or if there are no executors named in the will.
Apply as a legal professional
Download paper form titled ‘for probate professional practitioners’ to apply by post. Alternatively, you can apply online if you or your practice has a MyHMCTS account.
Before you apply
You’ll need to:
- report the value of the estate of the person who died to HMRC and
- pay any inheritance tax due
To apply for the grant:
1. download the correct paper form:
a. If you’re applying without a solicitor, download form titled ‘for citizens only’
b. If you’re a legal professional, download form title ‘ ‘for probate professional practitioners’
2. fill in all sections that apply
3. complete the checklist
4. print the form
5. sign and date the application
6. send your completed form and supporting documents to:
HMCTS Probate
PO Box 12625
Harlow
CM20 9QE
What to include in your application
The original will
You will need to submit the original will and the official death certificate. Photocopies of these documents will not be accepted.
By law, the original will becomes a public document when HM Courts and Tribunals Services (HMCTS) gives you the grant. It will not be returned to you as HMCTS must store it in the public records.
How long it will take
It can take up to 8 weeks to process your application if there’s no delay in receiving your documents.
Contact us
If you have not heard from us after 8 weeks or need help to complete this form, you can contact the probate helpline on 0300 303 0648. The line is open Monday to Thursday, 8am to 5pm and Friday, 8am to 4pm.
Last updated 22 April 2020 + show all updates
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Probate helpline opening times amended.
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New legal practitioner form published.
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Revised application form.
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Revised PA1P.
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Revised Welsh PA1P uploaded.
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Removed the link to HMRC as it is no longer needed.
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First published.