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Articles & Guides

Category: Probate

Practical guidance from Simon Jenkins, Director at Curtis Legal.

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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May 17, 2026

Inheritance Tax on Property — Main Residence Nil-Rate Band Explained

A plain-English guide to the main residence nil-rate band — the extra £175,000 IHT threshold available when a home passes to children or grandchildren in 2026.

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May 15, 2026

How to Value an Estate for Inheritance Tax (IHT400 Walkthrough)

Step-by-step guidance on valuing an estate for inheritance tax in England and Wales, covering the IHT400 form, asset categories, deductible debts, and HMRC deadlines.

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May 14, 2026

How to Get Money Out of a Deceased Nationwide Account

Everything you need to know about a deceased Nationwide account, including the UK’s most generous funeral fund release of up to £8,000 same-day in-branch and Nationwide’s £50,000 probate threshold.

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May 13, 2026

How to Get Money Out of a Deceased Bank of Scotland Account

A complete guide to dealing with a deceased Bank of Scotland account under Scottish law, including Confirmation, the small-estate procedure, and how to release funds for funeral costs.

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May 12, 2026

How to Get Money Out of a Deceased Halifax Bank Account

Halifax is the only major UK bank with 7-day bereavement phone support. This guide explains the £50,000 threshold, required documents, and when you need probate for a deceased Halifax account.

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May 11, 2026

How to Get Money Out of a Deceased Santander Bank Account

Santander’s £50,000 threshold and transparent bereavement policy make it one of the clearer banks to deal with after a death — this guide covers every step, including Cahoot accounts.

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May 7, 2026

How to Get Money Out of a Deceased NatWest Bank Account

NatWest’s £25,000 probate threshold is half the limit set by most major UK banks — find out exactly what documents you need and when probate is required for a deceased NatWest account.

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May 6, 2026

How Long Does Probate Take With a Will? 2026 Timescales

How long does probate take with a will? Most straightforward estates complete in 6-12 months. Complex estates take 2-3 years. Definitive 2026 timescales, stage by stage, with key deadlines.

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