Following death try and establish if your loved one left a Will and if so, who the Executor is. The Will itself usually indicates what should happen to your loved one’s estate.

The personal representative – or Executor –  is usually responsible for paying all the deceased’s debts, taxes and expenses from the estate (not their own income or savings). If you are the personal representative you may have to apply to prove the Will, obtain Probate or request Letters of Administration. This will give you the necessary permissions to pay bills and deal with the estate.

If in doubt, contact a solicitor who will advise you on how to apply for Probate.