Register the death of the Testator.
Obtain copies of the death certificate – several may be required not only before the funeral takes place but also for each of the funds that may have to be transferred e.g bank accounts, insurance policies, shares and other equities. Try to work out how many copies will be needed. Many places will need sight of an original Death Certificate before releasing funds. Copies obtained from the Registry of Births and Deaths are regarded as “originals” as opposed to a photocopy of the certificate.
Arrange the funeral
The cost will usually be the first expense paid for from the deceased’s estate.
Apply for a Grant of Probate
This can be done by contacting the nearest Probate Registry to you.
Arrange to open a personal representative’s bank account
This will be used for the receipt of money due to the estate and any loan arranged to pay the inheritance tax bill and/or probate fees.
Inform all relevant persons
Banks, building societies, life assurance companies, employers, local authorities, Inland Revenue, benefit agencies etc.
Arrange a valuation of the estate
This should include the house and contents, other personal items, investments in saving plans, equities, life policies, building societies etc. Make a detailed list of all the assets.
Find out about any debts
These will need to be paid from the proceeds of the estate. These will include mortgages, income and capital gains taxes, bills, credit cards, loans and overdrafts.
Complete the forms required.
These are required by the Inland Revenue Capital Taxes Office so that it can be established if any inheritance tax is due.
Complete the probate forms
Send these or take them to the probate office along with the original Will, the death certificate and the Inland Revenue account.
