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Recent data from HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) reveals that the average waiting time for a grant of probate in England and Wales has remained steady, signalling a continued improvement in processing efficiency following delays in recent years.
April 2025 Figures Show Stability
In April 2025, the average time between submission and grant of probate was 6.3 weeks unchanged from March and only a marginal increase from 6.2 weeks recorded in January and February. This figure marks a substantial improvement from November 2023, when the average wait peaked at 15.8 weeks, prompting the Justice Committee’s enquiry into probate backlogs and service delays.
Surge in Digital Probate Applications
Of the 26,883 applications received in April 2025, 21,012 were digital representing over 78% of total submissions. This digital shift has led to significantly faster processing:
Average for digital applications: 4.9 weeks
From document upload to grant: 2.9 weeks
Paper application wait times: 12.8 weeks
These statistics highlight the clear efficiency gains offered by HMCTS’s online probate service.
Ongoing Improvements Post-Inquiry
Since the Building Safety Act 2022 and the resulting push for greater efficiency and access, probate timelines have shortened considerably. Legal professionals and estate administrators are encouraged to use the digital system whenever possible to help ensure quicker outcomes.
Legal Insight
For executors, administrators, and bereaved families, shorter probate delays are a welcome relief. However, complexities around inheritance tax, will interpretation, and estate administration still require expert legal guidance.
If you need professional support with probate or estate administration, speak to our private client solicitors today for tailored legal advice.