Can an overseas executor deal with a UK probate case? An overseas executor dealing with the estate of someone who was British and had UK assets, will likely need a Grant of Probate or a Grant of Letters of Administration from the UK Probate Registry. We look at the process of an overseas executor dealing with a UK probate case.…
How long does it take to administer a Will? If you are dealing with the estate of someone who has died, you may be wondering how long it will take to wind up their affairs. Many people ask ‘How long does it take to administer a Will?’ so we take a look at the process and how long each stage…
Avoiding difficulties when dealing with beneficiaries after a death An executor or administrator of an estate, has the job of winding up the deceased’s affairs and distributing the estate to their beneficiaries. At a time when emotions tend to be running high, it can often be the case that disagreements arise. We offer some tips on avoiding difficulties when dealing…
Who is responsible for administering an estate? When someone dies, their Will names an executor who will be responsible for winding up their estate. We look at who administers an estate if the deceased did not make a Will. Also we see who can take on the role of estate administration. Normally after a death, the deceased’s personal representative, either…
Filling in Inheritance Tax Forms When dealing with the estate of someone who has died, you need to fill in some forms for HM Revenue & Customs. Where Inheritance Tax is payable, you may need to complete several schedules. We take a look at filling in Inheritance Tax Forms, including what forms are needed and who can complete them. After…
What is a Letter of Wishes and what does it contain? A letter of wishes is a document that can be put in place alongside your Will. This gives guidance to your executors, your loved ones and your trustees, if you appoint any. It is not legally binding, but it can be very useful to let people know what you…
Self-dealing in estate administration We take a look at the rule against self-dealing in estate administration. Executors who are dealing with the administration of an estate after someone’s death need to be careful not to breach the rules designed to protect beneficiaries. This includes not buying assets from the estate. Known as self-dealing, buying assets from an estate if you…
Who Takes Responsibility for a Funeral? After a death, one of the first tasks is to arrange the funeral. This is generally carried out by the deceased’s next of kin, whether or not they are an executor to the estate. We take a look at the legal position and who has the responsibility for a funeral. In some cases, it…
How long must an Executor wait after probate? If you have been left a legacy in someone’s Will, you may be wondering how soon it will be distributed to you. We take a look at the probate process and why executors may wait a while before making payments to beneficiaries. How long is the executor wait after probate? After someone’s…
What are the Personal risks in being an executor? The executor to an estate has the job of winding up someone’s affairs after their death. The role involves both responsibility and personal financial risk. We look at the personal risks in being an executor to someone’s Will. When someone passes away, their executors (named in their Will) role is to…
