What is involved with applying for a grant of representation as part of the process of probate in Braintree?

So someone you know has just passed away and you need to go through the process of probate in Braintree and you have been named as one of the executors of the deceased’s Will but how do you put yourself in a position where you can administer their affairs through a grant of representation?

You can apply for a grant of representation yourself or use a solicitor in just four easy steps.

(a) Complete a probate application form.

(b) Complete an Inheritance Tax form.

(c) Send your application.

(d) Swear an oath at your local probate office.

(i) Completing a probate application form

For advancing the process of probate in Braintree and other locations throughout Essex you can either:

(a) fill in the probate application form PA1 yourself

(b) call the Probate and Inheritance Tax helpline – 0845 302 0900 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) – to help you fill in the form.

(ii) Complete an Inheritance Tax form

You must also work out how much the estate is worth. Depending on its value, there may be tax to pay – called Inheritance Tax.

You must complete an Inheritance Tax form – even if you think no tax is owed.

Find the correct Inheritance Tax form.

If there is tax to pay, you normally have to pay at least some of it before a grant of representation is issued to you.

(iii) Send your application

Send your application to your local probate office

You should include:

(a) the probate application form PA1

(b) the Inheritance Tax form

(c) an official copy of the death certificate

(d) the original will and 3 copies – and any codicils (additions or amendments to it)

the application fee of £105 – a cheque made payable to HM Courts & Tribunals Service (there’s no fee if the estate is under £5,000)

You can pay for extra copies of the grant (£1 each) – this means you can send them to different organisations at the same time.

(iv) Swear an oath

You will need to go to a local probate office to swear an oath.

This is a ‘promise’ that the information you have given is true to the best of your knowledge.

You must bring 2 items of identification with you – like a:

(a) full driving licence

(b) passport

You should then get the grant through the post within 10 working days of swearing the oath.