Unacceptable Probate delays - not fit for purpose

RAS

So you have a major problem with your brother's will that needs resolving and the person who can resolve it hasn't responded to Probate Office? 

It's really difficult sometimes to get the balance between not wanting to put undue pressure on the witness and getting the witness to provide the evidence that might resolve the problem, when they might not even understand the problem or importance of their reply.

Hope it now gets sorted. Obviously the response will have to be considered by more senior staff.

doodle483

So I've found out today (through constant chasing/staying on hold) that my issue is their 'scanning department' forgot to scan the final page of my mum's will. That's the only issue holding it all up. This was in April and a re-scan from this department has twice been requested since, but nothing has happened. So it's looking as though I'm going over 12-weeks (and potentially losing our house sale) because someone in the probate team forgot a page when scanning...

I even offered to email them a scan of the will but they say they won't accept this - it needs to come from their scanning team, who are arguably less competent at scanning than your everyday Joe.

cheshireperson

Hi … I’ve read on this thread that some people are submitting online IHT documents- I was und the impression you could only post it. Could someone tell me how you do an online one please ?! Thanks  

doodle483

cheshireperson said:

Hi … I’ve read on this thread that some people are submitting online IHT documents- I was und the impression you could only post it. Could someone tell me how you do an online one please ?! Thanks  

You can submit your probate application online and request the IHT reference number online, but you are correct that completed IHT forms have to be posted.

jmr95

Do I need to request an IHT reference number if I already know there will be no tax to pay?

DancingBadger

jmr95 said:

Do I need to request an IHT reference number if I already know there will be no tax to pay?

Nope, no need.

limbohamthegodfather

This sounds very similar to my situation. I applied for probate on my fathers estate in Jan 2024, paid IHT, sent all the relevant forms, the will and paid the court fee. In Feb 2024 they questioned the will not being bound and asked for the witnesses contact info, all of which was done and I've been in email contact with the witness and they have sent back the questionnaire. 

Until this morning, that was the last I heard from the probate office as every time I check the application online it says the same thing that "we received your documents" and "we'll contact you for more info"....well the email I got today saying because there's been no recent activity on the case then it's about to become dormant! 

My fear is they've messed up their end and lost something

RAS

limbohamthegodfather said:

This sounds very similar to my situation. I applied for probate on my fathers estate in Jan 2024, paid IHT, sent all the relevant forms, the will and paid the court fee. In Feb 2024 they questioned the will not being bound and asked for the witnesses contact info, all of which was done and I've been in email contact with the witness and they have sent back the questionnaire. 

Until this morning, that was the last I heard from the probate office as every time I check the application online it says the same thing that "we received your documents" and "we'll contact you for more info"....well the email I got today saying because there's been no recent activity on the case then it's about to become dormant! 

My fear is they've messed up their end and lost something

Phone them and find out what is going on, tomorrow.