Probate is something most people prefer not to think about, yet a little preparation can make an enormous difference for the people who will one day need to deal with your estate. These steps are simple, practical and designed to remove stress at a time when clarity matters most.
- Keep your key documents organised and easy to find
One of the biggest delays in probate comes from missing paperwork. Make sure your will is stored safely and that your executors know exactly where it is. Keep a clear record of your financial accounts, insurance policies, property details and any other important documents. A simple folder, whether physical or digital, can save weeks of searching later.
We also have a handy organiser that brings all of this information together in one place. If you would like a copy, just get in touch and we will be happy to provide one.
- Create a list of your digital footprint
More of our lives now sit behind passwords. Bank accounts, investment platforms, social media, cloud storage and subscription services all need to be dealt with during probate. You do not need to share your passwords, but you should leave a clear list of the accounts you hold so your executors know what exists. Without this, assets can be missed and accounts can remain open for years.
- Make sure your beneficiaries and executors understand your wishes
A well written will is essential, but a conversation can be just as valuable. Let your executors know why you have chosen them and what you expect from them. Make sure your beneficiaries understand the broad outline of your wishes. Clear communication now prevents confusion and conflict later.
It is also sensible to remind your executors that they should use a suitably qualified solicitor unless they are genuinely confident in handling the probate process themselves. Probate can be complex and one area that is often missed is the requirement to register any trusts created by the will. This includes understanding the rules set out in the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds Regulations 2017 and the later changes introduced following the Fifth Anti Money Laundering Directive. A solicitor who specialises in this area will ensure these obligations are not overlooked.
- Review any trusts you have created in your lifetime
If you have set up a trust during your lifetime, or if your will creates one on death, make sure the trustees know their responsibilities. This includes understanding when the trust must be registered with HMRC through the Trust Registration Service. The rules are set out in the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds Regulations 2017 which were expanded following the Fifth Anti Money Laundering Directive. A little preparation now avoids a great deal of stress for trustees later.
- Keep everything up to date
Life changes. People move house, accounts are opened and closed, and assets shift over time. A quick annual review of your documents, your will and your financial records keeps everything current. It also ensures that your executors are not working with outdated information.
- Keep a clear record of any gifts you have made
Gifts can have important inheritance tax implications, especially if they fall within the seven year period before death. Executors often struggle to piece together what was given, when it was given and to whom. Keeping a simple record avoids confusion and ensures the estate is reported accurately.
A practical way to do this is to use the IHT400 form as a guide. It sets out exactly what HMRC will want to know about lifetime gifts. Recording this information as you go makes the probate process far easier for your executors and reduces the risk of errors.
Final thought
Probate will never be enjoyable, but it can be far less painful when the groundwork has been done. A little organisation, a clear record of your assets and gifts, and a few honest conversations can make an enormous difference. These steps are simple, but they spare your loved ones from unnecessary stress at a time when they will already have enough to manage.
Published on: 19.06.26
Contact: Daniel Sperber at Coleshill Wealth Management
T: 01675 622 445
E: daniel@coleshillwealthmanagement.co.uk
The information contained in this blog is for information purposes only and does not constitute advice. Please seek financial advice before making any decisions. The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. Past performance is not a guide to future returns.