Probate Checklist: What is needed as an Executor of a will to lodge a probate application?

This checklist is designed to assist someone who has been appointed as an Executor of a Will in getting the necessary paperwork to be able to lodge the probate application:

You will need the following documents/information to proceed with your application.

1. The Original Will of the deceased
2. Original death certificate
3. PPS number of the deceased and all beneficiaries of the Will.  Where a beneficiary does not have a PPS number, they must obtain one.
4. Names and addresses for the beneficiaries.
5. Completed prior benefit form (the Executor should have each beneficiary complete this form to clarify if they previously received any gift or inheritance in the same tax class as the one currently being received as tax may be payable in relation to the inheritance now being received when aggregated with prior gifts or inheritances).
6. Details of all Assets and Liabilities of the Deceased
7. Funeral Expenses/Receipts to include wake expenses (It is important to be aware that if the Executor has the funeral invoice, they should be able to bring it to the Deceased’s bank and ask them to arrange for the payment of the invoice from the Deceased’s account.  Alternatively, the Executor or a family member can pay the funeral bill and be refunded in due course when the funds are received into the Estate (subject to their being sufficient funds).
8. If the deceased owned property it is important to locate the title deeds as soon as possible.
9. If the deceased owned property, the Executor will need to obtain a date of death valuation for the property.
10. In some circumstances it may be necessary to obtain an Affidavit from the deceased’s doctor to confirm the deceased had capacity to make the Will at the time they did so.

In addition to the above it is important to check with the HSE, Revenue and Social Welfare to obtain clearance for the estate from each of these prior to distributing any funds from the deceased’s estate.

If you require advice on any property or probate related matters do not hesitate to contact Pauline Horkan or SallyAnn McCoy on 01 296 0666.