Documents to send applying for probate

happybagger

As executor I have done the online application for probate, for a relatively simple estate but required due to 2 bank accounts above their probate requirement.
The closing message is to send only the cover sheet and the original will, with no mention of the death certificate. Yet on another part of the HMCTS website said the death certificate will be returned.

Can anyone confirm whether the original death certificate needs to be sent?

Sarahspangles

I don’t believe you do need to send the death certificate, HMCTS can access the details electronically.  The  process has changed fairly recently and there does seem to be inconsistency between webpages/forms.  You would obviously need to send the certificate if it wasn’t issued in the UK,

BooJewels

I did the same recently and I think earlier in the on-line process it asks you if a death certificate or interim DC has been issued - so I think because they're now accessible digitally, you don't need to send one in.  I too got the cover sheet and just asked to send the original Will.

I've found that a couple of companies just ask for the DC no. now and must seemingly be able to check the details digitally from a database.

p00hsticks

I can confirm you don't need to send the death certificate unless it's specifically been asked for. 

bunnygo

just a reminder that the will won't come back, as it becomes part of the public record. Make sure you have a scan or photocopy, but don't disassemble the will to do it.

Flashned

I applied online on 27 January this year. Sent original will off as per instructions. Nowhere does it say to send death certificate (copy). I had acknowledgment of application and receipt of the will. 6 weeks later I had an email asking for a copy of the death certificate! Straight forward application, below IHT threshold, just a property to sell, and my sister and me as executors. I am at a loss to know why they don’t ask for the death certificate at the beginning of the process? I guess the 16 weeks restarted when they got the death certificate 😡