How Long Does Inheritance Take After Probate is Granted in the UK?

Discover how long it takes to receive ones inheritance take after probate is granted in the UK with this article that helps you understand probate and inheritance timelines.

Understanding Probate and its Significance

Before delving into the timeframe for inheritance distribution, it’s important to understand what probate entails. Probate is the legal process that validates a deceased person’s will and grants the authority to the executor to administer the estate. It involves gathering the deceased person’s assets, paying off any outstanding debts or taxes, and distributing the remaining estate to the beneficiaries.

How Long Does Inheritance Take After Probate is Granted in the UK?

So, how long does inheritance take after probate is granted in the UK? To know this, you’ll need to factor in the steps required for the process. So let’s take a look at a general timeline:

Step 1: Obtaining Grant of Probate

The first step in the probate process is to obtain a Grant of Probate. This document confirms the executor’s authority to act on behalf of the deceased person’s estate. The time taken to obtain the Grant of Probate can vary depending on the complexity of the estate and any potential complications. On average, it can take between 4 to 8 weeks to receive the Grant of Probate after submitting the application (NOTE: this was the norm but it is currently taking considerably longer than this because of a backlog in the government Probate Service).

Step 2: Gathering and Valuing Assets

Once the Grant of Probate is obtained, the executor must identify and gather all the assets of the deceased person. This may include properties, bank accounts, investments, and personal belongings. The executor must also obtain accurate valuations of these assets to determine the overall value of the estate.

Step 3: Paying Off Debts and Taxes

Before distributing the inheritance to the beneficiaries, the executor must settle any outstanding debts or taxes owed by the deceased person’s estate. This may include paying off mortgages, loans, utility bills, and inheritance tax. The timeline for this step can vary depending on the amount and complexity of the debts and taxes involved.

Step 4: Distribution of the Estate

Once all the debts and taxes are settled, the executor can proceed with distributing the estate to the beneficiaries according to the terms of the will. The time taken for distribution can depend on several factors, including the number of beneficiaries, any specific instructions in the will, and potential disputes or challenges to the will. In straightforward cases with no complications, the distribution of the estate can take between 3 to 6 months after obtaining the Grant of Probate.

Getting Your Inheritance Can Take Time

Inheritance distribution after probate is granted in the UK is a process that requires time and careful administration. While there is no fixed timeline for inheritance distribution, it typically takes several months to complete all the necessary steps, including obtaining the Grant of Probate, gathering and valuing assets, settling debts and taxes, and finally distributing the estate to the beneficiaries. Executors and beneficiaries should remain patient throughout the process and seek professional guidance to ensure compliance with all legal requirements.

If you’d like help claiming inheritance, or feel that something isn’t right with the contents of a will you’re named in, fill out our free claim assessment and our experts at Will Claim will get in touch with you.