Probate

At Debson and Co we provide non-contentious probate services and advise in a no nonsense, practical and transparent way.

We know that immediately after the death of a loved one, it can be a time of stress and the overall picture of the Estate may not yet be clear. At Debson and Co our professional and sympathetic team will be on hand to help guide and advise you through the process.

We will manage the probate and administration process on your behalf, keeping you up-to-date at every step – ensuring that the process goes as smoothly as possible for you. 

With our combined in-house expertise of both probate and tax we seek to optimise all available Inheritance Tax reliefs. 

THE PROBATE PROCESS
Stage 1 – Obtaining the Grant of Probate
This is an information-gathering exercise to prepare the Inheritance Tax Account and the Executor’s Oath. 

Stage 2 – After Probate is Granted
This is an active period during which the Grant of Probate is registered with all the asset holders, debts are paid and assets may be collected in or sold. There can be queries from HMRC about the value of the Estate. If the assets are clearly sufficient, the Executors will authorise the payment of legacies, and where possible a payment on account (“Interim Distribution”) is made to each of the beneficiaries. One or more of the beneficiaries may consider altering the Will (or the effect of the intestacy rules) by means of a Deed of Variation.

Stage 3 – Review
We will negotiate with HMRC over the valuation of assets in the Estate and the calculation of Inheritance Tax. If the Beneficiaries have decided to enter into a Deed of Variation it is prepared at this stage.

Stage 4 – Accounting and Final Distribution
The value of all the assets and debts will have finally been settled with HMRC. Inheritance Tax will have been paid and an application for a Clearance Certificate made. Accounts can then be drawn up to show money received and paid by the Executors and what funds are due to the Beneficiaries.