What is a grant of probate?

Last reviewed 18 August 2026

The grant is the instrument by which the law recognises an executor’s authority to gather in and distribute an estate. Without it, banks and registrars will not release what they hold, save below their own thresholds.

What the grant does

A grant of probate confirms the executor named in a valid will has authority to administer the estate. Where there is no will, the equivalent is a grant of letters of administration. Banks, share registrars and the Land Registry rely on it before transferring assets.

When you need one

Whether a grant is required depends on the assets, not on a single value. Sole-name property and balances above each bank’s threshold usually require it; jointly held assets usually do not.

Sources. GOV.UK, Applying for probate; HM Land Registry practice.