When someone dies without a valid will (intestate), no executor is named and the estate cannot be dealt with without court authority. Letters of administration are the legal document issued by the Probate Registry to authorise a suitable person — usually the closest living relative — to administer the estate. Probate Find connects you with specialist solicitors who will guide you through the full process.
Key facts about letters of administration
- Required when there is no valid will (intestacy)
- The closest living relative usually has priority to apply
- The estate is distributed under the Intestacy Rules
- A surviving spouse or civil partner takes priority under intestacy
- Where no eligible relatives exist, the estate passes to the Crown (bona vacantia)
What is letters of administration?
Letters of administration are granted by HMCTS Probate Registry where the deceased died intestate (without a valid will), or where a will exists but no executor is able or willing to act. The person appointed (the administrator) has the same powers as an executor but is not named in a will. The estate is then distributed under the Intestacy Rules, which set out a strict order of priority for relatives.
When is it needed?
Letters of administration are required when: the deceased died without leaving a will; the deceased left a will but it is invalid; the named executors have pre-deceased or are unable to act; or the estate includes assets held in the deceased's sole name that institutions will not release without court authority.
The process — step by step
Confirm intestacy
Your solicitor will confirm that no valid will exists and identify who has priority to apply for letters of administration under the Intestacy Rules.
Identify entitled beneficiaries
The Intestacy Rules set a strict order of priority. Your specialist will identify all eligible relatives and their entitlements.
Apply to the Probate Registry
The letters of administration application is prepared and submitted to HMCTS Probate Registry, including valuations and any required inheritance tax return.
Administer and distribute the estate
Once granted, the administrator collects assets, settles debts and distributes the estate to the entitled beneficiaries — exactly as an executor would under a will.
How Probate Find helps
Probate Find matches you with a specialist solicitor experienced in intestate estates. They will confirm who is entitled to apply, identify the eligible beneficiaries under the Intestacy Rules, prepare and submit the application to the Probate Registry, and administer the estate through to distribution — advising you clearly at every stage.
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