How to Complete Form PA1P When There Is a Will

Form PA1P is used to apply for a grant of probate by post in England and Wales when the deceased left a valid will. This grant gives the executors named in the will the legal authority to manage and distribute the deceased’s estate.

Who Should Complete Form PA1P?

If you are an executor named in the will, you can use Form PA1P to apply for probate. If there are no executors named, a beneficiary may apply instead, but this form is primarily designed for executors.

Key Sections of the Form

• Deceased’s Details: Provide the full name, date of birth, date of death, and last address of the deceased as accurately as possible.
• Applicant’s Details: Fill in your full name, address, and your relationship to the deceased (usually ‘executor’).
• Will Information: Confirm that there is a will and include details such as the date the will was made and the names of all executors.
• Estate Value: Give an estimate of the total value of the estate, including property, savings, investments, and possessions. This helps determine the probate fee and whether inheritance tax forms are needed.
• Legal Statement: You must sign a legal declaration confirming that the information is true to the best of your knowledge.

Practical Tips for Completing the Form

1. Use Adobe Reader: Download the official PA1P PDF and open it in Adobe Reader to fill in the form electronically before printing.
2. Check the Will Carefully: Make sure the will is the latest valid version and that you have the original or a certified copy to send with your application.
3. Include Supporting Documents: Along with the form, submit the original will, the death certificate, and any other documents requested.
4. Be Accurate with Estate Values: Estimating the estate’s value as precisely as possible helps avoid delays. If you’re unsure, seek professional advice rather than guessing.
5. Sign the Form: The applicant must sign the legal statement section. Unsigned forms will be rejected.
6. Send to the Correct Address: Follow the latest guidance on where to post your completed form and supporting documents. Check official sources for updates.

Exceptions and Additional Considerations

If the estate is very small or falls below certain thresholds, you might not need to apply for probate. However, if you do apply, Form PA1P is not suitable for intestate estates (where there is no will). In those cases, different forms apply.

Applying online is also an option and may be quicker. If you apply online, you do not need to submit Form PA1P by post.

If you have any doubts about completing the form or the probate process, consider consulting a solicitor or probate specialist. The form’s official guidance and helpline can provide additional support but do not replace professional advice.

Official reference: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/form-pa1p-apply-for-probate-the-deceased-had-a-will. Always check the latest official guidance. Related forms: Browse our form category.

Important: This article provides general information. Government rules, forms and procedures can change, and this article may not reflect the latest updates. Check current GOV.UK guidance or the relevant authority before relying on it. ITG & Co. is independent and is not affiliated with a government department.