Read the latest updates from HMCTS - topics include operational performance and management updates, upcoming changes to intestacy applications, new PA1A and PA1P digital forms and details of how to register for the next online information session for probate practitioners.
Operational performance
HMCTS shared an overview of its performance during 2025 and reported continued progress in reducing outstanding cases while managing high application volumes.
- 295,420 grants issued (second busiest year on record)
- 305,149 applications received (highest annual total to date)
- 39,381 workable cases at year end
- Open cases reduced from 77,889 to 39,381 over the last two years.
However, while the timeliness of online applications continues to improve, we reported to HMCTS that some ICAEW firms are experiencing delays with paper applications again. HMCTS noted that this quarter is their busiest period, and March is anticipated to be another demanding month, however, they expect timescales to improve going forward.
Intestacy applications
HMCTS is continuing to work on expanding the range of intestacy applications that can be submitted through the MyHMCTS portal. Launch is planned for early summer 2026, subject to successful testing.
Digital forms
New versions of the PA1A and PA1P forms (v4) will be introduced shortly. Changes will include:
- a single combined form for both professionals and citizen users;
- more detailed questions to reduce errors and incomplete applications;
- forms designed to be scanned and uploaded, enabling case tracking and updates through the portal; and
- older versions up to version 2 will be withdrawn and eventually no longer accepted.
Firms should aim to download the latest version of forms wherever possible.
Support for professional users
A quarterly national probate information session for professionals will take place on 19 March 2026 via Microsoft Teams. This will include a Q&A, and input from the registrar team on complex cases. For more information and to register attendance please contact: NSfamilybmt@justice.gov.uk.
For further support, virtual surgeries to escalate specific queries or challenges in older cases are still available on request. Email: ProbateMT@justice.gov.uk
Providing feedback
We encourage you to share feedback on any operational issues with us so that we can log any recurring issues and raise them with HMCTS on your behalf. Email ICAEW
About Probate Professional User Group meetings with HMCTS
This update is a summary of the information discussed at the most recent Probate Professional User Group meeting attended by Rachel Clements, Regulatory Policy Manager, ICAEW. Other attendees to these meetings include representatives from STEP (The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners), The Law Society, Council for Licensed Conveyancers, The Institute of Legacy Management, The Association of Lifetime Lawyers, and several charities.
