Herald - Issue 380

Probate is the o cial proving of a will – which probably leaves you none the wiser. In layman’s terms, probate is the whole process of dealing with the estate of someone who has died. Many people believe that as long as they are named as an executor in a will, they can just plough on and dispose of the money, possessions, property and debts accumulated by the deceased. But like many things in life (and death), it’s not quite as simple as that. In most cases, the executor has to apply for the legal authority to administer the estate. Luckily, this can now be done online. Once the grant of probate has been received from the probate registry, the executor can get to work. Yes, there are exceptions. A grant of probate may not be required if the estate is small or if there is jointly-owned property or if there are only savings or premium bonds. But be aware that nancial institutions all have their own rules and may not release sums above a certain amount without a grant of probate. For expert help with the probate process, contact Heritage Will Writing on 023 8087 9243. v THE NEXT HERALD IS OUT ON 14TH NOVEMBER v 24th October 2019 • The HERALD • Page 61 ASK A PROFESSIONAL Professional Will Writing & Inheritance Tax Services • Comprehensive Will Writing • Home Visits • Will Amendments and Reviews • Estate & Inheritance Tax Planning • Long Term Care Advice • Hospital & Care Home Visits • Lasting Power of Attorney We provide a friendly, approachable and discrete service and are on hand to meet your needs. Contact us now to see how we can assist you Tel: (023) 8087 9243 Email: info@heritagewillwriting.co.uk www.heritagewillwriting.co.uk Friendly and informal tuition for complete beginners to the more advanced will be held at St John’s Hall, Hythe. ese will take place on Mondays from 1.30pm until 3.30pm, and will cost £3 per week. No need to book, just drop in or telephone 023 8089 9769 or 07788 717773 for more information. Computer Classes for All Almost half of UK employees expect to work beyond age 65. Where do you see yourself at 65? On a beach, on the golf course or still at work? Some will work on out of nancial necessity, some will because they love their work or their colleagues and some will do it to provide for more lifestyle bene ts in retirement. e stimulus of work, the daily routine, nancial need or avoiding potential boredom are all reasons people work on longer. Employers can no longer discriminate against employees due to their age unless justi able. A lot of people stay in work to hold o a perceived decline in Work or Retire? Should I Stay or Should I go? by Michael Osman, Oyster Financial Planning nancial implications years in advance is easily done. We see it all the time, everyone is di erent, which is great for us, every client is a blank canvas and unique in their own way! To learn about the choices you will have get in touch with Michael at Oyster Financial Planning in central Hythe or call on 023 8084 8410. health than for nancial reasons. 48% of workers in the UK will work to 65 compared to 22% in France. However, it rises to 70% in Holland. A big reason for working on is keeping the brain alert. What would your reason be? Maintaining strong mental and physical health was also a big reason in a recent survey. Some will say an increase in the state pension age is a factor, which is true in some cases. With good planning and hard-work the reliance to have to wait until then, out of nancial necessity, can be for the minority of people. Whether you want to work on or feel you need to, understanding the WHAT IS PROBATE? by Heritage Will Writing