Do I need to apply for a Grant of Representation?

A Grant of Representation is not required every time a person dies. Some assets automatically pass to other people without the need for a Grant. Other assets, such as life insurance policies and death in service benefits, are paid outside of the estate of the deceased.

Although there is a statutory limit of £5,000 under which banks and building societies will release funds, they can raise this limit by their own internal regulation and requirement, and make discretionary payment to sums greatly in excess of this. It is therefore a good idea to approach banks and building societies to check that you actually do need a Grant before you tackle the process.