The PA1P Form is used to apply for probate when someone has died leaving a valid will.

The probate application is usually made by the executor named in the will and, once approved, results in a Grant of Probate being issued. This guide explains who can use the PA1P Form, where to find it, how to complete it, what documents are required and the common mistakes to avoid when applying for probate.

The PA1P Form is the probate application form used when someone has died leaving a valid will. It is completed by the executor or executors named in the will and submitted to HM Courts & Tribunals Service (The Probate Registry) to apply for a Grant of Probate.

A Grant of Probate gives the executor the legal authority to collect assets, close bank accounts, sell property, pay debts and distribute the estate in accordance with the deceased's wishes.

You will usually need to complete a PA1P Form if:

• The deceased left a valid will.
• Assets are held solely in the deceased's name.
• Banks, building societies or investment providers require a Grant of Probate before releasing funds.
• Property needs to be sold or transferred.
• You need financial help to cover the cost of the probate application fee (see below).

Not every estate requires probate, but many executors will need to apply for a Grant of Probate before they can administer the estate.

If you need to claim Help With Fees to cover the cost of the probate application fee (£300), you will need to apply using the PA1P Form together with the EX160 Help With Fees form. Follow the link to find out more about who can claim Help With Fees.

The application is usually made by the executor or executors named in the will. 

If an executor has died, does not wish to act, or lacks mental capacity, alternative arrangements may need to be made before the probate application can proceed. Give us a call or drop us an email to find out more.

The PA1P Form can be downloaded from the Government website and completed as part of the probate application process.

Alternatively, the form is included within our DIY Probate Kit. The kit contains all the latest key probate and inheritatnce tax forms together with a comprehensive 100+ page step-by-step guide covering:

• Valuing the estate
• Applying for probate
• Inheritance Tax calculations
• Completing probate forms
• Collecting estate assets
• Distributing the estate

This can be particularly useful for executors who are handling probate themselves and want practical guidance throughout the process, together with phone & email support.

Before completing the form, you should gather:

• The original will and any codicils
• The death certificate
• Details of all assets and liabilities
• Property valuations
• Bank and savings account balances
• Investment information
• Details of any gifts made before death
• If Inheritance Tax is payable, or you are claiming additional tax allowances like the Nil Rate or Unused Nil Rate Band, Residential Nil Rate or Unused Residential Nil Rate tax Band allowances (IHT435, IHT436, IHT402), you will need to submit an IHT400 to HMRC BEFORE applying for probate. Once this has been checked and cleared by HMRC, a Unique Probate Code will be issued by HMRC which needs to added to the probate application for it to be approved.

The documents required will depend on the circumstances of the estate, but typically include:

• The completed probate application
• The original will
• Any codicils
• The death certificate (if requested)

The Probate Registry may request additional information if clarification is required.

Probate times vary depending on the complexity of the estate and Probate Registry workloads.

Straightforward applications may be processed within a few weeks, while more complex estates can take significantly longer. If there are any mistakes on the probate application form, this can also delay the application.

However, we have seen applications take just 7 days for a very simple estate. Typically the Probate Registry quotes 12 weeks mininum. You can get a grant of probate more quickly if you apply and pay online.

Once the Grant of Probate has been issued, the executor can begin collecting assets and administering the estate.

Can I complete the PA1P Form myself?

Yes. Many executors complete the probate application themselves without using a solicitor. That's why we designed our Let's Do Probate DIY Kit.

Is the PA1P Form used if there is no will?

No. The PA1P Form is used when there is a valid will. Different procedures apply where there is no will. This is called applying for Letters of Administration and you would use the PA1A Form (also in our DIY Probate kit).

Do I need a solicitor to apply for probate?

No. There is no legal requirement to use a solicitor and many executors successfully handle probate themselves. Probate is not a legal process, it's and admin process.

Can more than one executor apply?

Yes. Multiple executors named in the will can apply together. has been issued, the executor can begin collecting assets and administering the estate.

What if a solicitor or legal firm has been appointed as executor as well as family?

You can request that solicitor or legal firm to stand down - some will make a charge, most will not. Give us a call if you need to discuss how to do this or need help with this.

Are you looking for help to apply for probate (and IHT calculations) give the Let's Do Probate team a call on 0330 229 0319 , and we’ll be happy to help. You can schedule a free timed call to ask any questions you have about probate & inheritance tax, using our online booking system here.