How does it all work? There’s a lot to know if it’s your first time handing this…

No one is ever really prepared to manage a loved one’s estate. Even if there’s a will, the admin and emotional demands can be far more complex than expected. You’ll need to find key documents, coordinate with experts, deal with probate and make important decisions at a time when grief is taking up so much space.

Here’s an overview of what really happens behind the scenes, along with some practical ideas to help you stay organised, informed, and supported throughout the process of managing the estate.

Be prepared for unending probate admin

The admin begins almost immediately. Families find themselves sorting through bank statements, insurance paperwork, pension documents, and gas bills in drawers or files that might not have been opened for years. Each organisation will require proof of death and ID before they can release personal information or close accounts. Property, personal items, and financial assets also need to be valued – but banks, investment firms, and mortgage lenders each have their own procedures and timelines, and tracking correspondence (much of which can be in emails) can feel like a full-time job. The volume of small tasks (making calls, posting forms) can really take families by surprise.

Why probate timelines can vary so much

Probate doesn’t move in a straight line. You’ll run into legal requirements, court backlogs, and the estate might end up being more complex than you thought. Property sales can also unexpectedly extend the probate timeline, especially if the home needs repairs or the market is slow. Family decision-making can add time if multiple executors or beneficiaries need to agree on key steps. All of this means that probate can take several months to more than a year so set yourself realistic expectations early on to reduce stress later on.

How to stay organised during the long probate journey

A simple estate management checklist can make a big difference. Create a digital or physical ‘master’ folder for key documents, correspondence, and important deadlines. You could also work with a probate solicitor or financial adviser to help you interpret mysterious legal terminology and ensure that nothing is missed. Set small, manageable goals each week to prevent stress and overwhelm (and get a chance to rest, too).

Short-term solutions for when probate delays affect finances

Probate delays can create financial gaps, especially when property expenses, funeral costs, or inheritance tax must be paid before funds are released. You could dip into savings, ask relatives to chip in for the short-term, or rely on probate loans for a temporary solution by offering access to funds before the estate is settled. These are just one of several tools, but they can ease pressure during long waiting periods.

Probate: Both an admin task and an emotional journey

Handling a loved one’s estate can be a rollercoaster of emotions, along with endless waiting between all the admin and legal requirements. But by understanding what to expect, staying organised, and seeking expert support where necessary, you can successfully navigate the process one step at a time.