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Articles & Guides

Category: Probate

Practical guidance from Simon Jenkins, Director at Curtis Legal.

May 28, 2026

Inheritance Tax on Jointly Owned Assets

Joint ownership affects inheritance tax in different ways depending on whether assets are held as joint tenants or tenants in common. This guide explains the key IHT rules.

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May 27, 2026

How to Pay Inheritance Tax Before Probate is Granted (Direct Payment Scheme)

IHT must be paid before probate is granted but estate funds are frozen without it. Our guide explains the Direct Payment Scheme, instalment option, and probate loans.

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May 26, 2026

Executor Personal Liability — When You’re On the Hook

Executors risk personal liability if they pay beneficiaries before clearing debts or fail to meet tax obligations. Learn about devastavit, IHT risks, and how to protect yourself.

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May 25, 2026

Lasting Power of Attorney — Property and Financial vs Health and Welfare

A lasting power of attorney comes in two types: property and financial, and health and welfare. This guide explains what each covers, the differences, and how to register.

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May 22, 2026

What Happens If Someone Loses Capacity Without an LPA?

Without an LPA, a Court of Protection deputyship is needed to manage affairs for someone who has lost mental capacity — a costly and slow process. Find out what is involved.

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May 21, 2026

How to Get Money Out of a Deceased Starling Bank Account

Starling Bank releases funds within two working days for estates under £50,000 — the fastest in the UK. Our guide covers the deceased Starling bank account process, Settld notification, and when probate is required.

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May 20, 2026

How to Get Money Out of a Deceased Monzo Bank Account

Everything executors need to know about a deceased Monzo bank account: the three-tier probate threshold, how to notify Monzo without the deceased’s phone, and when probate is required.

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May 19, 2026

How to Get Money Out of a Deceased Co-operative Bank Account

A step-by-step guide to closing a deceased Co-operative Bank account, covering the £50,000 probate threshold, Smile and Britannia accounts, weekend bereavement support, and IHT423 payments.

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May 18, 2026

The 7-Year Rule on Gifts Before Death — IHT Taper Relief

The 7-year rule governs when lifetime gifts attract inheritance tax. Learn how taper relief reduces the bill on failed PETs and which gifts are immediately exempt.

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May 18, 2026

How to Get Money Out of a Deceased TSB Bank Account

A practical guide to a deceased TSB bank account, covering TSB’s £25,000 probate threshold, DocuSign electronic forms, the Farewill partnership, and how to release funds for funeral costs.

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