Your documents are ready. Here's your complete step-by-step guide to completing your probate application and administering the estate.
Download This Guide as PDFWe've sent your documents to the email address you provided. The email contains the following attachments:
Executor Estate Spreadsheet (.xlsx)
Pre-populated with all the information you provided — for your records and reference throughout the process.
Form NIPF7 — Estates Summary Form (.docx)
Completed with the deceased's name, date of death, and estate values. Ready for submission to the Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service.
Step-by-Step Submission Guide (.pdf)
Detailed instructions explaining exactly how to submit your probate application through the online court portal.
Bank Account Closure Letters (.docx)
Personalised letters for each bank and building society account, already addressed and filled in with the executor's and deceased's details. Ready to print, sign, and send once you receive the Grant of Probate.
Didn't receive the email? Check your spam/junk folder. If it's not there, contact us at hello@probatedirectni.com and we'll resend your documents.
Before submitting, carefully review all the information in your documents to ensure accuracy. Check names, dates, addresses, and financial figures. If you spot any errors, you can correct them in the Word documents before submission.
Follow the step-by-step guide we've provided to submit your application through the Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service online probate system. You will need:
The court typically takes up to 8 weeks to process your application and issue the Grant of Probate. During this time, there are several things you can do to prepare for estate administration.
We've already generated personalised bank closure letters for each bank and building society account in the estate. These letters are pre-filled with:
You can send these letters now, before you receive the Grant. Here's what to do:
Tip: Most banks will acknowledge your letter within 1–2 weeks and freeze the account. They will then hold the funds until you can provide a certified copy of the Grant of Probate. Sending these letters early means the accounts are ready to be closed as soon as the Grant arrives.
Your personalised, pre-filled letters were sent with your email. This downloads a blank template if you need additional copies.
Secure the deceased's property and valuables
Ensure the property is locked, insured, and that any perishable items are dealt with. Redirect post to your address if necessary.
Set up an executor's estate account
Open a dedicated bank account in your name as executor. All estate funds should be collected into this account before distribution to beneficiaries.
Keep detailed records of all estate expenses
Record every expense you incur on behalf of the estate (funeral costs, property maintenance, postage, etc.). You are entitled to be reimbursed from the estate.
Do not distribute any assets yet
You must not distribute any assets to beneficiaries until you have received the Grant of Probate and paid all debts and liabilities from the estate.
The court will send you the official sealed Grant of Probate by post. This document gives you the legal authority to administer the estate. Request at least 3–5 certified copies at the time of issue (currently £1.50 each) — you'll need to send one to each financial institution.
If you sent the bank closure letters during the waiting period (as described above), the banks will already have frozen the accounts and be expecting the Grant. Now you need to:
Send a certified copy of the Grant to each bank
Write a brief covering letter referencing your original closure request, and enclose a certified copy of the Grant of Probate. Send by recorded delivery.
Wait for the bank to release the funds
Most banks will release funds within 2–4 weeks of receiving the Grant. They will transfer the balance to the executor's estate account you specified, or issue a cheque.
Follow up if you haven't heard back
If you haven't received a response within 3 weeks, contact the bank's bereavement services department by phone for an update. Have your reference number ready.
Once you have your Grant of Probate and have collected the estate funds, follow these steps:
Use this checklist to track your progress through the estate administration process:
Submit your completed NIPF7 form through the online portal. At the same time, print, sign, and post your bank closure letters to each financial institution.
Banks will acknowledge your letters, freeze the accounts, and provide balance statements as at the date of death. Keep these statements safe — you may need them for the estate accounts.
The court reviews your application. They may contact you if they need clarification. Use this time to secure the property, keep records, and prepare for estate administration.
You receive the sealed Grant by post. Send certified copies to each bank to release the frozen funds.
Banks transfer the account balances to your executor's estate account. You can then pay debts, settle liabilities, and distribute to beneficiaries.
If you have questions about your documents or need corrections:
hello@probatedirectni.comFor questions about the court application process:
NI Courts & Tribunals ServiceProbate Direct provides document preparation services only. We do not provide legal advice or ongoing support for court applications or estate administration. If you need legal advice or assistance with complex estate matters, please consult a qualified solicitor.