Understanding a grant
Grant of probate vs letters of administration
Written and reviewed by our experienced team. Last verified against gov.uk on 26 July 2026. ProbateCheck is an independent service, not a law firm.
A grant of probate is issued when the person left a valid will that names an executor able to act. Letters of administration are issued when there is no will. 'Letters of administration with will annexed' apply when there is a will but no executor who can act. All three are grants of representation and all appear in the public probate records.
The three types of grant
- Grant of probate — there is a valid will, and it names an executor who is able and willing to act.
- Letters of administration with will annexed — there is a will, but no executor is named or the named executor cannot act, so an administrator is appointed.
- Letters of administration — there is no will, so the estate passes under the rules of intestacy and an administrator (usually the closest relative) is appointed.
Together these are called grants of representation. Whichever was issued, it appears in the same public probate index and a copy costs £16. For searching purposes, the practical point is simple: if any grant exists, there is a public record you can find and order.
No will?
Where there is no will, the estate is shared under the rules of intestacy. A grant of letters of administration is still issued and is still searchable in the probate records.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between probate and letters of administration?+
A grant of probate is issued when there is a valid will with an executor able to act. Letters of administration are issued when there is no will, or no executor able to apply. Both give authority to deal with the estate and both appear in the public probate records.
Do letters of administration appear in the probate records?+
Yes. Letters of administration are a grant of representation and appear in the same public probate index as a grant of probate. A copy costs £16.