Letters of Administration

Letters of Administration are legal documents issued by the Probate Registry when a person dies intestate (that is, without a valid will). They grant authority to an appointed administrator, typically a close relative, to manage and distribute the deceased’s estate according to the laws of intestacy.

When Are Letters of Administration Required?

Letters of Administration are required when:

• The deceased did not leave a will
• The will is deemed invalid or does not name an executor
• The named executor(s) are unable or unwilling to act

Without these documents, no one has the legal authority to access or distribute the estate’s assets.

Who Can Apply for Letters of Administration?

Usually, the applicant is a close family member in the following order of priority:

1. Spouse or civil partner
2. Children
3. Parents
4. Siblings

If more than one person is entitled to apply, up to four individuals may act jointly. Solicitors often assist with the application process, particularly in large or contested estates.

How to Apply for Letters of Administration

The process is similar to applying for a Grant of Probate:

• Identify the deceased’s assets and liabilities
• Value the estate and report it to HMRC if inheritance tax is due
• Complete the PA1A form (for intestate estates)
• Submit the form, supporting documents, and fee to the Probate Registry

Use Cases and Examples

• A daughter applies for Letters of Administration after her father dies without a will, allowing her to close his bank accounts and pay funeral expenses.
• A solicitor represents a surviving partner to obtain Letters of Administration where no will exists and the estate includes a jointly owned property.

Mini-FAQ

How are Letters of Administration different from a Grant of Probate?
Probate applies when there is a will; Letters of Administration are for intestate estates.

How long does it take to receive Letters of Administration?
Typically, 6 to 8 weeks from submission, but it can take longer if the estate is complex.

Can more than one person apply?
Yes. Up to four administrators can be appointed to act jointly.

Letters of Administration are an essential legal instrument in cases where a person dies without a valid will. They provide a lawful route to ensure the deceased’s estate is managed appropriately and distributed in line with statutory rules.