Introduction
If you have recently lost a loved one, you are probably hearing the word “probate” repeatedly , but what does it actually involve, and how long does it take? This question worries many families, especially when they are already overwhelmed by grief and practical responsibilities.
In this guide by Will 4 Less, we will explain it clearly and compassionately, discuss average timelines, and answer common worries like:
- Why does it take so long sometimes?
- What can cause delays?
- Is there any way to speed it up?
Let us walk you through everything step by step, so you feel informed and confident in dealing with your loved one’s estate.
What Is Probate Abingdon-on-Thames and Why Does It Take Time?
Probate is the legal process of administering someone estate after they die. It involves:
- Proving their will is valid (if there is one)
- Identifying and valuing all assets
- Paying off debts and taxes
- Distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries
If there is no will, the process is called letters of administration, but people commonly refer to both as “probate.”
Many people type into Google, “Do I need probate if there is a will?” The answer is: usually, yes. It ensures that banks, land registry, and other institutions release funds and property only to the legally authorised person (the executor).
How Long Does Probate Abingdon-on-Thames Take on Average?
The average probate timeline in the UK is 9-12 months from start to finish. However, this varies depending on several factors, including:
- The size and complexity of the estate
- Whether there is property to sell
- How quickly HMRC processes Inheritance Tax paperwork
- Whether any beneficiaries or family members contest the will
Here is a breakdown of typical timings:
1. Preparing the Application (2-8 weeks)
This is the first major stage that affects how long it takes.
During this time:
- You gather details of all assets and liabilities
- Obtain date-of-death valuations for properties, bank accounts, investments, pensions
- Check for lifetime gifts made within 7 years for Inheritance Tax
Why does it take time?
- Banks and financial institutions have varying processing times for releasing balances.
- Property valuations need to be arranged by RICS qualified surveyors for accuracy.
- Some institutions require original documents posted.
2. Submitting the Probate Application (4-12 weeks)
Once you have asset valuations and know whether Inheritance Tax is payable:
- Complete the necessary HMRC Inheritance Tax forms (IHT205 or IHT400)
- Pay any IHT due before submission (for estates over the nil rate band threshold)
- Apply for the Grant of Probate (or Letters of Administration) through the Probate Registry
Why might delays happen here?
Currently, its applications are taking 6-16 weeks to be processed, depending on:
- Whether it is an online or paper application
- Registry backlogs
- Complex tax calculations requiring HMRC clearance
3. Collecting in the Estate (2-4 weeks)
Once probate is granted, executors can:
- Close bank accounts
- Sell or transfer property
- Cash in investments and life policies
This stage is often quick if there are no property sales involved. However, selling a house can extend the process significantly, depending on market conditions, surveys, buyer chains, and conveyancing timescales.
4. Paying Debts and Distributing the Estate (4-12 weeks)
After collecting in assets, executors must:
- Pay any outstanding debts or final bills
- Place statutory advertisements to protect against unknown creditors
- Prepare estate accounts for beneficiaries to approve
- Distribute funds or transfer property accordingly
If beneficiaries are abroad, or if there are disputes about entitlements, this stage can take longer.
Why Does Probate Abingdon-on-Thames Take So Long?
Many families search, “Why is it taking so long?” or “My it is delayed , what is wrong?”
Here are common reasons probate gets delayed:
1. Incomplete Information
If details about bank accounts, pensions, shareholdings, or property ownership are missing or unclear, it slows down the valuation and application process.
2. Complex Estates
Estates involving multiple properties, foreign assets, trusts, or business interests take longer due to additional legal requirements.
3. Inheritance Tax (IHT) Complications
If IHT is payable, forms like IHT400 are detailed and require correct asset valuations. HMRC processing can add 4-8 weeks to the timeline.
4. Property Sales
Selling property often delays estate distribution, especially if the housing market is slow.
5. Disputes Between Beneficiaries
If beneficiaries argue over distribution, or if someone contests the will, it can be delayed for months or even years.
6. Delays at the Probate Registry
Backlogs (especially post-COVID) have caused delays in issuing Grants of Probate, sometimes by several months.
7. Debts or Unknown Creditors
Executors must ensure all debts are settled before distributing the estate, including waiting periods for any unknown creditors to come forward.
Is There a Way to Speed Up Probate?
While it naturally takes time due to legal checks, here are practical ways to avoid unnecessary delays:
Get organised early. Gather all financial documents, property deeds, insurance policies, and debt statements.
Use professional probate services. Companies like Will 4 Less ensure forms are completed correctly the first time.
Respond promptly. If your solicitor or it provider asks for additional information, send it immediately.
Pay IHT promptly. It cannot be granted until HMRC confirms IHT has been settled or payment plans are in place.
Communicate clearly with beneficiaries. Keeping everyone updated reduces confusion, worry, and potential disputes.
Real Life Example: Probate Abingdon-on-Thames Timescale for a Typical Estate
To illustrate, here is a realistic example:
Mr. Singh’s estate – no Inheritance Tax
Assets: £150,000 in savings and investments + home owned jointly with his wife
Executor: His wife
Steps:
- Death registered and Will located within 1 week
- Probate forms prepared in 2 weeks
- Probate application processed in 8 weeks
- Funds released to wife and children within 3 weeks
Total time: ~3.5 months
Mrs. Patel’s estate – Inheritance Tax payable
Assets: £750,000 estate including sole property ownership
Executor: Daughter
Steps:
- Inheritance Tax forms completed in 4 weeks
- Tax payment arranged before its application
- It granted in 12 weeks due to HMRC clearance delays
- Property sale completed in 3 months
Total time: ~8 months
These examples show that it varies by estate complexity and tax liabilities, but preparation, organisation, and professional support significantly reduce timescales.
What Factors Can Delay Probate?
Many clients ask us: “Why is it taking so long?”
Here are common reasons:
1. Missing documents – Lost title deeds, share certificates, or pension paperwork.
2. Unpaid Inheritance Tax – It cannot be issued until IHT is settled.
3. Foreign assets – Estates with property or investments overseas require additional legal processes.
4. Disputes or claims against the estate – Will challenges, dependency claims, or family disagreements.
5. Multiple properties to sell – Especially where beneficiaries disagree on valuations or timing.
Is Probate Abingdon-on-Thames Always Required?
Many people searching “How long does it take?” also wonder if they need it at all.
You may not need probate if:
- All assets were jointly owned and pass to the surviving owner.
- The estate is very small (banks often release under £5,000-£10,000 without it, but limits vary).
- Certain life insurance policies or pensions were written ‘in trust’ and pay directly to named beneficiaries.
However, if property or significant investments are in the deceased’s sole name, it is usually essential to transfer or sell them.
How Long Does Probate Abingdon-on-Thames Take If There Is No Will?
When someone dies intestate (without a will), the process is similar but called letters of administration. It often takes slightly longer than probate with a will, because:
- Administrators must prove their entitlement under intestacy rules
- More extensive family tree checks may be needed
- Banks or institutions might request additional documentation
Expect at least 9-12 months for intestate estates, though small estates with no property can be quicker.
How Long Does Probate Abingdon-on-Thames Take If There Is a House to Sell?
If the estate includes property to sell, it typically takes longer:
Property Valuation (1-3 weeks): Getting estate agent valuations or RICS valuation for Inheritance Tax purposes.
Probate Application (8-12 weeks): Required before exchanging contracts.
Property Sale Process (8-16 weeks): Varies with the housing market, buyer’s chain, and conveyancing timescales.
Therefore, selling property can add 3-6 months to the probate timeline.
What Happens If Probate Takes Over a Year?
If it takes longer than a year, it can cause:
- Financial strain for beneficiaries needing funds
- Increased emotional stress, keeping grief unresolved
- Interest penalties on unpaid Inheritance Tax
- Frustration with executors, especially if delays are avoidable
In these cases, seeking professional help to expedite outstanding tasks, resolve disputes, or manage complex tax issues is advisable.
Can Probate Be Avoided to Save Time?
Families often search, “How can we avoid probate?” While you can not avoid it entirely if there are solely owned assets or property, some ways to simplify include:
✔️ Joint ownership. Assets held jointly pass directly to the surviving owner.
✔️ Beneficiary designations. Pensions and life insurance policies with named beneficiaries usually bypass probate.
✔️ Trust planning. Assets placed into trust during lifetime do not go through it.
However, professional advice is essential to ensure these options suit your personal and tax circumstances.
Final Thoughts: Preparing Emotionally and Practically for Probate Abingdon-on-Thames
Understanding how long it takes is more than a legal query , it is about emotional preparedness during a vulnerable time. Losing someone you love is difficult enough without added stress over legal processes.
At Will 4 Less, we guide families like yours with empathy, clarity, and efficiency. Our probate specialists:
- Handle paperwork meticulously
- Liaise with HMRC and Probate Registry on your behalf
- Minimise delays wherever possible
- Keep you informed at every step, reducing uncertainty
If you are feeling anxious about how long it might take in your situation, contact our team today. We offer free initial guidance to discuss your estate’s needs, timescales, and whether our streamlined probate services can help you achieve peace of mind sooner.