What is Probate in Ireland?
Probate in Ireland is the legal mechanism by which a deceased person’s assets are identified, collected, used to pay debts and taxes, and then distributed in accordance with their will—or, if there is no will, in line with statutory rules under the Succession Act 1965.
- If there is a will: the named executor applies for a Grant of Probate.
- If there is no will: a close relative applies for a Grant of Administration (Intestate).
- If there is a will but no executor: an Administration with Will Annexed is issued to someone entitled to residuary estate.
The grant confirms the executor or administrator has legal authority to manage the deceased’s estate, including accessing bank accounts, selling property, and distributing assets.
Step-by‑Step: The Probate Process in Ireland
1. Confirm the need for probate
Not all estates require probate. Assets may pass outside probate in these scenarios:
- Jointly owned assets (e.g., bank accounts, property) typically transfer to the surviving owner automatically.
- Low‑value accounts (often under €20,000) may be accessed directly; but banks may impose different limits.
If the deceased solely owned property or accounts, probate is required.
2. Appoint the Personal Representative
Executor (under a valid will), Administrator (if died intestate) or Administrator with Will Annexed are appointed by the Probate Office as the personal representative and get the Grant of Representation.
Priority for administration applications follows this order:
- Spouse/civil partner
- Child
- Other close relatives
3. Gather Assets & Determine Value
The personal representative must identify all the deceased’s assets and liabilities:
- Real estate, bank/credit union accounts, shares, life insurance, pensions, personal property
- Debts like loans and credit card balances.
Collecting financial statements, property valuations, and title documents may take 2–4 months, depending on estate complexity.
4. Prepare Required Documentation
Required paperwork typically includes:
- Official death certificate
- Original or certified copy of the will (if applicable)
- Inland Revenue Affidavit (SA2), detailing assets, liabilities and inheritance tax position
- Completed Probate Application forms
- Oath sworn by executor/administrator.
If applying as administrator, bonds may be required as security .
5. Lodge the Application
Completed documents are submitted to:
- The Central Probate Office, Phoenix House, Dublin 7, or
- A local District Probate Registry (e.g., Cork, Galway).
From 2025, digital improvements are streamlining filing, processing and tracking for solicitors.
6. Wait for the Grant of Probate / Administration
Typical waiting times vary:
- 3–6 months for straightforward estates.
- Average in urban areas like Dublin: 6–12 months .
- More complex or contentious estates can take over a year.
- Reddit users report recent applications taking 8–17+ months.
From records, as of late June 2025, Dublin Probate Office is processing applications lodged as of 15 May 2025, indicating ~8‑week backlog.
7. Administer the Estate
After receiving the grant, the executor can:
- Gather assets and settle debts/taxes
- Pay inheritance tax and submit Revenue clearance (can take ~6 weeks after probate)
- Distribute assets to beneficiaries.
Time taken from grant to full distribution ranges from 6 to 12 months, depending on asset complexity.
Executors have a statutory “Executor’s Year”—12 months from date of death—to complete administration.
How Long Does Probate Take in Ireland?
Colourful summary:
| Phase | Time Estimate |
| Asset gathering | 2–4 months |
| Application preparation & filing | 1–2 months |
| Waiting for Grant | 3–6 months (sometimes longer) |
| Administration & distribution | 2–6 months |
| Total ordinary cases | 6–12 months |
| Complex/contentious | 12–18+ months |
Common Delays & Complications
- Complex or overseas assets: properties, businesses, shares need valuations and extra documentation.
- Will disputes: beneficiary challenges under Succession Act Sections 117/27 may trigger litigation.
- Incomplete paperwork: Probate Office may query SA2 or supporting documents.
- Tax issues: inheritance tax questions or clearance delays.
- Selling property: can take months to complete sale and transfer title.
- Modernisation delays: older digital systems still transitioning, though progress continues.
Do You Need a Probate Solicitor in Ireland?
Why engage a probate solicitor in Ireland?
While it’s possible to apply for probate yourself (especially if the estate is simple), many people choose to work with a probate solicitor to reduce stress and avoid mistakes. A probate solicitor can:
- Navigate forms (SA2, grant application) accurately and efficiently
- Meet deadlines and ensure legal compliance
- Value assets properly and advise on tax planning
- Represent in disputes or court actions
- Access digital filing & track applications
- Provide emotional support during stressful times.
Law firms across Ireland—including Dublin and regional centres—offer probate services, typically charging fixed fees or percentages of estate value.
Applying for Probate in Ireland: Practical Tips
- Locate the will early: search solicitor offices and with family
- Obtain all key documents & valuations — certificates, statements, property appraisals
- Filling the SA2 carefully: accurate estate values and correct payee disclosure
- Keep beneficiaries informed: share grant and progress updates
- Request Revenue clearance promptly after grant to avoid distribution delays
- Consider online probate systems: digital rollout helps solicitors in 2025
Role of the Executor / Administrator
Your responsibilities include:
- Locating and safeguarding assets
- Valuing assets and applying for grant
- Settling debts and taxes
- Distributing remaining estate to beneficiaries
- Maintaining transparent accounts and reporting to beneficiaries
- Handling legal claims or disputes.
Executors bear personal liability and must act with diligence and good faith
Tips to Ensure a Smooth Probate
- Keep organised estate inventories
- Communicate with beneficiaries early and often
- Seek expert legal and financial guidance
- Track deadlines—estate settlement must occur within 12 months
- Be ready to respond promptly to Probate Office or Revenue queries
- Use digital tools as rollout continues into late 2025.
Summary
Ireland’s probate process involves validating a will (or intestacy), applying for a grant, and administering assets through debt settlement, tax clearance and distribution. Typically, 6–12 months for common cases, with complexities extending to 18 months or more. Hiring a probate solicitor simplifies the procedure, especially with new digital systems improving efficiency this year.
For anyone applying for probate in Ireland, being informed, prepared, and well advised can save time, reduce stress, and ensure the deceased’s wishes are honoured with the least delay. McKenna & Co Solicitors are here to help guide you through every stage of the probate process with clarity and compassion. With a quick response rate, expert legal insight, and a strong reputation for client satisfaction, we offer the support you need when it matters most. Contact us today to discuss your case or learn more about how we can assist you.
