A grant of probate is the legal document that confirms an executor's authority to administer a deceased person's estate. Most banks, building societies, and investment providers will ask to see it before releasing significant funds.
Do you always need one?
Not every estate requires a grant of probate. Smaller estates, or those held entirely in joint names, may be able to proceed without one. A financial asset search can help establish which of these situations applies before you commit time to the probate application.