🧾 First Steps for an Executor (UK Edition)

Being named an executor — or stepping in as next of kin when there is no will — can feel overwhelming. This guide gently explains the first things you’ll need to do in the UK, step by step.

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🌱 At a glance: first duties of an executor

1. Register the death
2. Secure property and belongings
3. Locate the will (if there is one)
4. Gather key documents
5. Check if probate is required
6. Look into Inheritance Tax (IHT)
7. Notify organisations and government bodies
8. Decide if you want professional help

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💡 What is an executor?

An executor is legally responsible for carrying out the instructions in a will.

If there is no will, the closest next of kin usually becomes the administrator. In both cases, you’ll manage the estate — the person’s property, finances, possessions, and debts.

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🪪 Step 1: How do I register the death?

You usually need to register a death within:

• 5 days in England, Wales, Northern Ireland
• 8 days in Scotland

✅ Bring:

• Medical Certificate of Cause of Death
• Details about the person (name, DOB, place of death, occupation, etc.)

📍 Use GOV.UK to find your local register office.

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🏡 Step 2: How do I secure the property?

If the person lived alone or you’re worried about security:

• Lock windows and doors
• Redirect post (Royal Mail Redirection)
• Notify the building insurer of the death
• Pause or adjust utilities if needed

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📜 Step 3: How do I locate the will?

Check for:

• A physical copy in a safe place
• A solicitor or bank that may hold it
• Online storage services (e.g., National Will Register)

💡 If you can’t find a will, the estate is handled under intestacy rules.

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🗃️ Step 4: What documents should I gather?

Start with:

• Death certificate (order several copies)
• The will (if any)
• Identification (yours and the deceased’s)
• Financial papers (bank, pension, insurance, mortgage)
• Details of property, debts, and assets

💡 WithYou Tip: Use a digital folder or checklist to stay organised.

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⚖️ Step 5: Do I need probate?

Probate gives you legal permission to access the estate.

• If there’s a will → apply for a Grant of Probate
• If no will → apply for Letters of Administration

✅ Probate is usually needed if:

• The estate includes property or land
• Sole accounts hold more than £5,000–£50,000 (varies by bank/provider)

Check with each bank for their threshold.

📍 See GOV.UK: Apply for Probate.

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💷 Step 6: Do I need to pay Inheritance Tax?

You may need to complete IHT forms, even if no tax is due.

• Most estates under £325,000 are exempt
• Anything left to a spouse or charity is usually tax-free
• Use the HMRC IHT Calculator to estimate

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💌 Step 7: Who should I notify?

Organisations to contact include:

• HMRC (tax)
• DWP (benefits/pension)
• Local council (council tax, blue badge)
• Banks, insurers, and utilities
• Memberships and subscriptions

👉 Use the Tell Us Once service (England, Wales, Scotland) to notify multiple government departments in one go.

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