Step-by-Step Guide to Wills and Probate

About the book A Step-by-Step Guide to Wills and Probate explains how to write a simple Will, and how to deal with the affairs of someone who has died. It is written in plain language, not lawyers’ jargon, by authors who have many years’ experience in the probate offices, It explains when you can do things yourself and when you need a solicitor. The subjects covered include:- - MAKING YOUR WILL: why do it; how to do it; appointing executors; the different gifts that can be made; how to make sure the Will is valid and will be put into effect; examples. - WHO MAY APPLY FOR PROBATE: how to work out who, of the relatives and friends left behind, is the one to sort out a deceased person’s affairs. Who inherits if there is no Will? - THE ESTATE: making sure that all the property and detb are found. - INHERITANCE TAX: working out if tax has to be paid, how much, and the arrangements for paying it. - FILLING IN THE FORMS: essential paperwork, with examples. - GOING TO COURT: the procedure for visiting the probate registry to finalise the paperwork. - ADMINISTERING THE ESTATE: collecting together the property; paying the debts; distributing the inheritances.