Probate in Ireland can feel overwhelming when a loved one passes away. From filing the SA.2 form to obtaining the Grant of Probate, our solicitors at Halpin & Co. Solicitors, Cork, guide you through each stage with clarity and care.
Understanding Probate in Ireland
Probate is the legal process that allows an executor or administrator to deal with the assets of someone who has died.
If the deceased left a valid will, the executor applies for a Grant of Probate.
If there is no will, a close relative applies for Letters of Administration.
These grants, issued by the Probate Office, confirm the legal authority to collect, manage, and distribute the estate.
Learn more about our Probate Services.
Step 1 – How to Prepare the SA.2 Form for Probate in Ireland
Before applying for probate in Ireland, the executor must complete the SA.2 form online via the Revenue Commissioners.
This form lists the deceased’s assets, liabilities, and beneficiaries.
✅ Tip: Accuracy matters — errors or omissions can delay the grant for weeks.
More info on the Revenue probate process.
Step 2 – Key Documents Required for the Irish Probate Process
Typical documents include:
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Original will and codicils 
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Death certificate 
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Notice of Acknowledgement (Probate) from Revenue 
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Oath for Executor and Affidavit of Testamentary Documents 
Once submitted, the Probate Office reviews the file and issues the Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration.
Step 3 – Administering the Estate After Probate in Ireland
After receiving the grant, the executor must:
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Collect assets (bank accounts, insurance, property) 
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Pay debts and expenses 
- 
Distribute remaining funds to beneficiaries 
Executors are legally obliged to act transparently and keep accurate records.
Engaging a solicitor early helps ensure the Irish probate process runs smoothly.
Inheritance Tax (CAT) and Probate in Ireland
Beneficiaries may owe Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) on inheritances above certain thresholds (Oct 2024):
| Group | Tax-Free Threshold | Examples | 
|---|---|---|
| A | €400,000 | Children / Stepchildren | 
| B | €40,000 | Siblings / Nieces / Nephews | 
| C | €20,000 | Other relatives / Unrelated persons | 
Any amount above these limits is taxed at 33%.
Beneficiaries must file Form IT38 with Revenue if their inheritance exceeds the threshold.
Learn more about CAT on the Revenue website.
If There Is No Will: Intestacy and the Probate Process in Ireland
If a person dies intestate, the Succession Act 1965 determines inheritance rules.
Usually, a spouse inherits two-thirds and children share one-third.
Without spouse or children, the estate passes to other relatives.
In these cases, an administrator applies for Letters of Administration (Intestate).
Our team can assist families through this procedure.
Why Choose Halpin & Co. Solicitors for Probate in Ireland
Our probate team in Cork assists executors, administrators, and families across Ireland.
We provide:
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Expert guidance at each stage of probate in Ireland 
- 
Assistance with Revenue filings and inheritance tax 
- 
Clear communication and compassionate support 
Whether your case is simple or complex, we ensure everything is handled with professionalism, empathy, and integrity.
Get in Touch
Need help applying for probate in Ireland?
 Halpin & Co. Solicitors – 7 South Mall, Cork
 021 425 1843  ✉️ info@halpinsolicitors.ie
 www.halpinsolicitors.ie



