Notify us when a loved one dies

If you have recently lost a family member or friend, please accept our sincere condolences.
Losing someone is always incredibly hard and we understand that this is a difficult time. Our probate team is here to help you navigate the next steps.
You can call them on 020 8380 0333 option 2, then option 4 or you can email bereavement@wsl-ltd.co.uk

The Role of an Executor

The role of an Executor is to collect in the assets of the deceased and distribute them according to the Will. In most cases, the Executor will have to obtain a Grant of Probate to facilitate the probate process.

Probate vs Grant of Probate

These terms are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings:

  • Probate is the overall process of administering  someone’s estate once they have passed away.

  • The Grant of Probate is a  legal document that confirms the Executor’s authority to act and as such,  gives them access to the deceased’s assets

When is a Grant of Probate likely to be needed?

While some institutions may release funds without a Grant, it is usually needed in the following circumstances:

  • Any property held in the deceased’s sole name will need a Grant to sell or transfer

  • Property held as tenants-in-common where both owners have died will need a Grant to sell or transfer
  • Bank accounts in the deceased’s sole name with balances above £30,000 – £50,000 will typically require a Grant however, each bank sets its own threshold
  • Bonds/NS&I will usually require a Grant for anything over £5,000
  • Stocks and Shares almost always need a Grant for any amount
  • Certain Life insurance policies will sometimes need a Grant, depending on how they are written

Additional Considerations for Executors  – Will Trusts

Will trusts are  often included in a Will to mitigate potential vulnerabilities within an estate and require the Trustees (usually the Executors) to complete additional tasks, such as:

  • Registering the trust within 90 days of the date of death to avoid penalties from HMRC
  • Recording the trust with the Land Registry
  • Protect and manage the trust assets in the best interests of the beneficiaries.

Our probate team is here to help

Our specialist probate consultants are available to assist you during this difficult time. They may be able to provide specific advice with regards to administering the deceased’s estate, obtaining the Grant of Probate or dealing with Will trusts.

To access this service, please provide the following documents by email or post:

  • the death certificate of the deceased
  • photo ID of the Executor making the request
  • a signed cover letter from the Executor making the request. 
Please include updated contact information and confirm to which address the Will should be sent.

If you are contacting us on behalf of the Executor, please include a signed letter of authority from the Executor with your correspondence.

  • WSL Ltd, Canal Court, 152-154 High Street, Brentford, Middlesex, TW8 8JA

Probate Support

Lifetime members of WSL can access Probate Support through the Classic and Premier Lifetime Services. If you feel this would be of benefit, please speak with your probate consultant.

Contact Us Today