Probate & Inheritance

Free, plain-English guides to probate, wills and inheritance in England and Wales — from applying for probate and inheritance tax forms to writing a will. Whether you are dealing with a loved one’s estate or planning ahead, these step-by-step guides walk you through the paperwork in the order the process actually happens. Start with applying for probate where there is a will (form PA1P) or letters of administration where there is no will (form PA1A), then work through the inheritance tax forms — IHT205 for smaller estates, plus the IHT402, IHT403, IHT421 and IHT435 schedules for nil-rate bands, lifetime gifts and probate summaries. Planning ahead instead? See the DIY will guide for England and Wales, amend a will with a codicil or letter of wishes, use a deed of variation to redirect an inheritance, or set up a lasting power of attorney, advance decision or Court of Protection deputyship. For the full checklist in one place, see our probate and inheritance forms hub. Every guide is free to read — and when you’re ready, Chris can help you draft your own documents to a professional standard, in minutes.

Practical court-preparation tips — free to your inbox

Scroll to Top
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Crown copyright forms and guidance are reproduced under that licence.
Litigant Standard ™