Prepare for a lengthy task, at least several months

Go to Who to Tell Checklist

Consider using a SOLICITOR if one is not already appointed in the will

Ensure that the Will instructions are carried out

Locate and secure all assets

Locate deceased’s address/telephone   book

Locate as many of the following as possible:

The original & current will

Death certificate & certified copies

Wallet or purse

Cheque books

Bank accounts/statements

Bank deposit books

Bank/credit/debit/ID/membership cards

Cash

Building society passbooks/statements/records

Post office savings books

National savings books

National lottery tickets

Premium bonds

Life   or any insurance policies

Benefit/allowance/pension books

Pension  (including company) policies/records

Share certificates/brokers details/nominee account details

Other savings accounts

Mortgage statements & details

Tax (& VAT) records

Records of household bills & council tax

All unpaid bills

Details of deceased’s professional advisors

Details of next of kin/family/heirs

Shred all old or unrequired financial documents

Ensure clothes/discarded items sent to charity shops/dump have identity removed

Consider Tax return

Discover if probate is required   

Consider inheritance tax

Remember that IHT will have to be paid before probate is granted… Loan required?

No IHT due if all assets are between husband & wife

Obtain extra certified copies of the grant of probate

Settle all outstanding debts

Advertise if necessary for unknown creditors

Claim only your out of pocket expenses

Do not claim for your time