Digital ID implications for the probate process

Posted on 26th March 2026
The government is consulting on how digital IDs could make public services quicker, easier and more secure to access. 
 
Digital IDs could reduce the need for multiple telephone calls, form filling and repetition. These are all common when you’re dealing with the probate process. 
Fingerprints and other biometric data could become part of a UK digital ID scheme.
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House of Lords concerns about IHT changes

Posted on 12th March 2026
The House of Lords has concerns about changes to Inheritance Tax.
Personal representatives (PRs) are responsible for managing your estate when you die. However, changes to inheritance tax (IHT) will create more responsibilities and liabilities for them. The House of Lords is concerned about the impact of IHT on unused pension pots, farms and small businesses. 
 
For family members and close friends acting as PRs, IHT changes could add significant stress during their time of bereavement. 
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HMRC increases IHT investigations

Posted on 24th February 2026
Investigations have identified estates which have underpaid inheritance tax (IHT). As a result, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has reclaimed £millions of payments. 
 
The process includes obtaining information from government bodies and other agencies including the Land Registry and the Trust Registration Service. Discrepancies in information from different sources will help to identify underpayments. 
Increasing prices for family homes mean more estates will pay inheritance tax.
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Modernising the LPA process

Posted on 10th February 2026
New digital processes will speed up LPA registration but you can still use paper forms.
New digital processes to register Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) come into effect this year. 
 
The changes should improve the process of preparing LPAs with a more efficient and secure system. Identity checks, clearer roles, and enhanced digital services will modernise the strengthen LPAs, helping to keep everyone safe. 
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Are your affairs in good order for 2026?

Posted on 23rd December 2025
As well as happy memories you will probably leave behind things of value when you die. 
 
However, deciding what will happen to your estate isn’t only about money. You’ll want to make sure you include the people and things you care about. 
You leave behind happy memories with your loved ones and assets when you die.
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Unclaimed assets could be mounting up

Posted on 9th December 2025
Assets following the sale of a family farm could have been lost.
Executors recently discovered lost assets of £629,000, held in multiple bank accounts following the sale of a family farm. 
 
A daughter was in care and had a life interest in her mother’s estate. A law firm was acting as her deputy, looking after her interests. Sadly, she died before her mother. When her mother also died, there were two estates to deal with. There was very little information available about these separate but related estates. 
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