Distribute the estate
Pay the beneficiaries and get receipts.
Clear records end the process properly and protect you if anyone questions it later.
- How long it takes
- A few weeks
- Typical cost
- Free
- What you need before you start
- Debts settled
- Beneficiary bank details verified by phone
Produce a simple set of estate accounts: what came in, what went out, what each beneficiary receives. Share it with the beneficiaries.
Ask each beneficiary to confirm receipt in writing or by email.
Verify bank details by phone with a person you know. Estate payments are a common fraud target.
General information, not legal advice. Last reviewed 19 August 2026 by Simon D Campbell. Applies to England and Wales.