When the Probate Registry issues your Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration, they also issue any official sealed copies you have ordered (£2 each). These copies are as legally effective as the original and are accepted by banks, investment platforms, the Land Registry, and other institutions.
Why do you need more than one?
Each institution typically needs to receive an official copy before they will release or transfer assets. If you only have the original, you can only deal with one institution at a time. Official copies allow you to contact multiple organisations simultaneously, significantly speeding up estate administration.
What do they cost?
Each official sealed copy costs £2. They can be ordered when you submit your application or at any point after the Grant is issued.
How many do you need?
- One copy per bank or building society account
- One for each investment platform or stockbroker
- One for the Land Registry if property is being sold or transferred
- Additional copies for pension providers, insurance companies, and other institutions
Most executors find they need between three and eight copies. Ordering more than you expect upfront is more cost-effective than requesting further copies later.
