Independent UK Form Assistance

Applying for Probate Without a Will? Make Sense of Form PA1A

When someone dies without leaving a will, applying to administer their estate can seem overwhelming. Our plain-English PA1A companion explains the official paper application, helping you understand the questions and prepare the information needed.

Clear, step-by-step guidance for applying for letters of administration in England and Wales.

✓
Based on Official HMCTS Guidance

The PA1A Probate Quick-Fill Companion

A 6-page downloadable PDF with straightforward explanations, fictional examples and a final checklist to help you work through Form PA1A.

✓ Step-by-step guidance
✓ Instant PDF download
✓ Print at home

£5.99

One-off purchase • No subscription

Secure Stripe checkout. Your PDF download link is emailed after confirmed payment.

This is optional independent guidance, not the official probate form or a probate application service. The official PA1A form is available free from GOV.UK. Any applicable HMCTS probate fees are separate.

Understand the PA1A Form Before You Apply

Use our Quick-Fill Companion alongside the official PA1A paper form. It helps explain unfamiliar questions, family relationships, estate information and the documents you may need to prepare.

✓ Understanding who can apply

Learn about the importance of family relationships and the legal priority rules when the person who died did not leave a will.

✓ Applicant and deceased person’s details

Understand which personal information and supporting details the official application requests.

✓ Estate values and inheritance tax information

Understand the questions about the estate and why the correct HMRC reporting process matters.

✓ Fictional examples

See simple examples that help explain what certain questions are asking. Use your own accurate circumstances in the application.

✓ Final application checklist

Review signatures, supporting documents, official fees and submission instructions before posting your application.

Designed for the PA1A Paper Probate Form

This guide is intended for people using the official PA1A paper application in England and Wales when the deceased did not leave a will.

Some applicants may be able to apply online instead. Always check whether probate is necessary, whether you are entitled to apply and which application procedure is appropriate for your circumstances.

Take Some of the Confusion Out of Probate

Missing information, incorrect details or misunderstandings about the application can lead to requests for further information and unnecessary delays. Our PA1A companion helps you prepare more confidently and review your paperwork before submitting it.