How long after probate will I get my money?

One of the biggest worries people have during probate is knowing when the inheritance will actually arrive. It is a completely natural question, especially when you are dealing with bills, funeral costs, or simply trying to plan ahead. The truth is that inheritance rarely arrives the moment probate is granted, but there is a clear journey from grant to payment.

What happens immediately after probate?

Once probate is granted, it can feel like everything should happen all at once, but the grant is really just the “go ahead” to start collecting funds.

In many cases, banks and organisations do need to see the official grant before they will release money, close accounts or send balances to the executor.
However, some banks can release funds without the grant, depending on the amount held and their internal thresholds. Every institution has its own rules, so there is no single standard.

Either way, it is only once funds start being gathered that the real administration begins.

Typical timeframes

For most estates, beneficiaries can expect to receive their inheritance between six and twelve months after the grant. However, this all depends on the complexity of the estate. This is the average across England and Wales and fits with what we see at Curtis Legal.

Why is there such a wide range?

Because each estate has its own moving parts.

What affects the timeline?

1. Banks releasing funds

Every bank works at its own pace. Some release money quickly, while others can take several weeks. Some will release smaller balances without the grant; others will not.
This variation is normal and not a sign that anything is wrong.

2. Debts and bills must be checked

Executors need to make sure all debts are settled before distributing money. This includes utility bills, credit cards, care fees, and anything else owed by the estate.

3. HMRC checks

If inheritance tax is involved, HMRC sometimes needs additional details.
In 2024, HMRC reported that around 13% of estates that submitted tax returns required further review before probate could continue.

4. Selling property

If a house forms part of the estate, the timescale naturally extends. As of late 2024, the average home sale in the UK took around 18 weeks from offer to completion.
An estate cannot be finalised until the sale funds are received.

Will I get anything sooner?

Often, yes. Many estates allow for interim payments, which are partial amounts released once enough money has been collected to cover all future expenses. We always try to offer this where possible, so families are not left waiting longer than necessary.

It’s important to keep expectations realistic

Probate feels personal to every family, so there really is no one-size-fits-all. But at Curtis Legal, we aim to support you throughout the entire process and ensure everything is moving in the right direction.

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