Letters of Administration
Legal document giving authority to administer an estate when there's no valid will. Issued to administrators rather than executors.
Letters of Administration is the legal authority granted when someone dies without a valid will (intestate). It's equivalent to a Grant of Probate but for intestate estates.
Who Can Apply?
Applications must follow a priority order:
- Surviving spouse or civil partner
- Children of the deceased (over 18)
- Parents of the deceased
- Siblings (whole blood)
- Siblings (half blood)
- Grandparents
- Aunts and uncles
The Process
Similar to probate, applicants must:
- Value the estate
- Complete form PA1A
- Pay any inheritance tax due
- Swear or affirm the details
Key Difference
The person granted Letters of Administration is called an administrator, not an executor. They have the same duties but must follow intestacy rules rather than a will.
Common questions
What is the difference between probate and letters of administration?
Probate is granted when there's a will. Letters of Administration is granted when there's no will (intestate estate).
Can an unmarried partner apply for letters of administration?
No. Unmarried partners have no automatic right. They'd need to apply to court, which can be contested by blood relatives.
How much does letters of administration cost?
The same as probate - £300 application fee for estates over £5,000. Solicitor fees are also similar.
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