How Long Does It Take to Get Inheritance Money in the UK?

Losing a loved one is never easy. And when you’re also waiting on an inheritance, the legal and financial process can feel overwhelming.

So how long does it take to get inheritance money in the UK? Many beneficiaries and families want to understand the steps, the timelines — and what to expect next.

This guide explains how inheritance works in the UK, how long it typically takes, and what might cause delays. We’ll also cover how to track progress and whether it’s ever possible to access money early.

The Typical Timeline: From Death to Distribution

Before any inheritance is released, the estate must go through a legal process called probate. This is where the person in charge of the estate (called the executor or administrator) gets permission to manage the assets, pay debts, and distribute what’s left to beneficiaries.

For most estates, this process takes between 6 to 12 months from the date of death. But can take longer for complex estates.

Here’s a breakdown of what that usually looks like:

1. Initial steps (0–2 months)

• Register the death
• Locate the will (if there is one)
• Identify all assets and debts
• Apply for probate (if required)

2. Grant of Probate (2–4 months)

Once the application is submitted, it usually takes 8 to 12 weeks to get the Grant of Probate — the legal document that gives the executor authority to act.

3. Administering the estate (4–10 months)

With the grant in hand, the executor can:

• Access accounts and property
• Pay off any outstanding debts or taxes
• Distribute the remaining assets

Simple estates may be settled in under six months. More complex cases (with property, tax issues, or overseas assets) often take longer.

How Long After Probate Can Funds Be Distributed in the UK?

Once probate is granted, funds can usually be distributed within 3 to 6 months, depending on how quickly assets are gathered and liabilities are settled.

That said, many executors wait a little longer — typically up to six months after the grant of probate — to allow for any legal challenges or claims. This is a common safeguard to protect against disputes under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act.

If you’re a beneficiary, expect the full process — from death to inheritance payout — to take 6 to 12 months in most cases.

What Causes Delays?

Some estates move quickly. Others don’t. Here are the most common reasons why inheritance might take longer:

1. Tax or debt issues

If the estate owes Inheritance Tax, this must usually be paid before probate is granted. The executor also needs to settle any outstanding debts or bills before distributing funds.

2. Will disputes or legal claims

If someone challenges the will or makes a legal claim, probate can’t move forward until the dispute is resolved. This can add months — sometimes years — to the process.

3. Missing paperwork or lost assets

If key documents (like the original will or property deeds) are missing, or if the executor has trouble locating certain assets, things may grind to a halt.

4. Complex estates

Estates that involve property sales, overseas assets, or business interests take longer to value and process.

5. Difficulties with executors

If an executor is unable or unwilling to act — or makes mistakes — this can lead to legal delays. Replacing them takes time and may require court approval.

How to Check if Probate Has Been Granted

If you’re waiting on an inheritance, you may be wondering if probate has even been issued yet.

Here’s how to check if probate has been granted:

Option 1: Use the UK Government’s online probate search

The probate registry offers a public search tool at https://www.gov.uk/search-will-probate.

Enter the deceased’s name and year of death to see if a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration has been issued.

Grants typically appear online about two weeks after they’re issued.

Option 2: Ask the executor or their solicitor

If you’re named in the will, or if you’re a close family member, you can contact the executor directly to ask about progress. Most will understand and give you a clear update.

Option 3: Contact the Probate Service

If you know the application has been submitted, but it’s been more than 12 weeks with no update, you can call HMCTS to check the status.

How Long Do Banks Take to Release Money After Probate?

Once probate has been granted, banks can legally release funds to the executor.

In most cases, banks release the money within 1 to 2 weeks after seeing the Grant of Probate.

The executor will then use this money to:

• Pay off any final bills or taxes
• Cover any administrative costs
• Distribute what’s left to beneficiaries

Some estates may be paid out in stages — especially if a house still needs to be sold or other assets are tied up. But the cash portion is usually paid first.

Can You Access Inheritance Money Early?

No doubt that if you’re searching for how long it takes to get inheritance money in the UK, you may want to get your hands on some of your inheritance before everything is finalised.

The short answer? Usually not. Executors are legally responsible for making sure debts, taxes and liabilities are paid before money is distributed. That’s why they typically wait until everything is clear before paying beneficiaries.

But there are a few exceptions:

1. Joint accounts or property

If you held a joint bank account or jointly owned property with the deceased, those assets usually pass directly to you without needing probate.

2. Life insurance or pensions

Some policies pay directly to a named beneficiary. These are not part of the estate and can be accessed relatively quickly — often within a few weeks of submitting a claim.

3. Funeral and urgent costs

Banks may allow small withdrawals from the deceased’s account (usually up to £5,000) to cover funeral expenses or immediate family needs. This requires a death certificate and proof of costs.

4. Partial or interim payments

In rare cases, an executor may offer an interim payment — a portion of your inheritance paid early, while the estate is still being settled. This only happens when the estate is clearly solvent, and the executor is confident there won’t be surprises.

5. Inheritance Advance

We lend up to 60% of your expected inheritance. This could give you a little extra cash before your full distribution, to be used how ever you wish. Unlike traditional loans, we don’t consider your income or personal assets when making a lending decision. Only the value of your inheritance. Which makes accessing your a portion of inheritance a lot more straightforward.

Final Thought: Patience Pays Off

Waiting for an inheritance can be frustrating — especially when it’s tied to the loss of someone close to you.

But knowing the process helps. Probate isn’t instant, but it’s there to protect everyone involved and ensure the estate is handled correctly.

So, how long does it take to get inheritance money in the UK? In most cases, between 6 to 12 months. Simple estates may resolve faster. Complicated ones can take longer. And while delays do happen, a good executor (or solicitor) will keep things moving.

If you’re feeling unsure or stuck, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. A probate specialist can help clarify timelines, responsibilities, and what to expect next.

Key Takeaways

• Probate is usually granted within 2 to 3 months of application.
• Inheritance is typically paid within 6 to 12 months after death.
• Executors must pay taxes and debts before distributing funds.
• You can check probate status online or by contacting the executor.
• Banks release funds 1–2 weeks after probate in most cases.
• Early access is rare, but possible in certain cases (e.g. joint accounts or life insurance).

At Level, we understand that waiting for inheritance can be stressful — especially when life doesn’t pause. That’s why we offer fast, flexible financial support to help you move forward with confidence. Whether you’re a beneficiary needing early access to your inheritance, or an executor facing upfront costs like Inheritance Tax, our services are designed to ease the pressure without adding complexity. If probate is holding things up, we’re here to help you take the next step — simply, clearly, and without delay.