How to Find a Will Online for Free in the UK

Finding a will in the UK can be essential for legal and personal reasons, whether you are a beneficiary, solicitor, or conducting historical research. If you need to locate a will online for free, the UK government provides an official probate records service, making it easier to access wills and estate details.

At Fraser Bond, we understand the importance of handling probate, wills, and estate matters efficiently. This guide outlines the best ways to find a will in the UK, ensuring a straightforward search process.

Can You Find a Will for Free in the UK?

Yes, it is possible to search for a will in the UK at no cost, though obtaining a full copy of the document may require a small fee. The UK government offers an online probate search service, which provides access to wills and probate records dating back to 1858.

How to Search for a Will Online

1. Use the HM Courts & Tribunals Probate Search Service

The UK government provides an official online database where you can search for probate records, including wills:

• Visit the GOV.UK Probate Search: Access the Find a Will service.
• Enter Search Details: You will need the deceased person’s full name and year of death.
• View Probate Records: If probate has been granted, you can see basic details for free.
• Order a Copy of the Will: If you require a full copy, there is a small fee of £1.50 per document.

New probate records typically become available 14 days after the grant of probate is issued.

2. Check The National Will Register

If a will is not found in the government's database, it may be registered with the National Will Register, the UK’s official will registration service.

• Visit the National Will Register: Access the official search tool.
• Search for a Registered Will: This database contains over 10 million wills stored by solicitors.
• Request a Search: Basic checks may be free, but a detailed will search may require a small fee.

3. Search for Wills by Post

If you prefer a postal search:

• Download Form PA1S: Available from the GOV.UK website.
• Submit the Request: Send it to HM Courts & Tribunals Service along with the £1.50 fee.
• Processing Time: Postal applications take around 4 weeks.

Additional Information for Finding a Will

• Wills Before 1858 – Older wills are stored in the National Archives or local record offices.
• Scottish Wills – If the deceased lived in Scotland, search via Scotland’s People.
• Northern Ireland Wills – Use the NI Direct Will Search service.

Why Finding a Will is Important

Locating a will can help:

• Executors carry out the deceased’s final wishes.
• Beneficiaries understand their inheritance rights.
• Solicitors and probate professionals handle legal matters efficiently.
• Researchers and historians access important family records.

Final Thoughts

Finding a will in the UK has never been easier with online probate search tools. Whether you're an executor, beneficiary, or legal professional, the GOV.UK probate service and National Will Register offer quick and reliable ways to access the documents you need.

If you require expert assistance with property inheritance, probate sales, or estate management, Fraser Bond is here to help. Contact us today for professional property services.