Find a Will (gov.uk probate search)¶
The Find a Will service is the Probate Registry's public search tool for grants of representation issued in England and Wales since 1858. It is the canonical route to obtaining a copy of a will after probate has been issued. The service is run by HMCTS at gov.uk/search-will-probate. [source: gov-uk/search-will-probate-2026-04-29.html]
The search returns three categories of grant: Probate and Grant and Will (where a will exists), Admon with Will (administration with the will annexed, also containing a will), and Administration (Admon) (no will — the deceased died intestate). Identifying which category applies tells you whether a will is even available to order. [source: gov-uk/search-will-probate-2026-04-29.html]
A copy of the probate record and any attached will costs £16 when ordered online or by post via Form PA1S. A new record appears in the online service approximately 14 days after probate is issued. Records before 1996 are stored under the year the grant was issued, not the year of death; very old or very recent grants sometimes need a check across adjacent years. [source: gov-uk/search-will-probate-2026-04-29.html]
Last verified: 29 April 2026 against gov.uk/search-will-probate.