13th February 2026 ❘

Updated Banking Protocol Aims to Improve Probate Administration Process

Updated Banking Protocol Aims to Improve Probate Administration Process

Updated Banking Protocol Aims to Improve Probate Administration Process…

By James Cape

UK Finance has unveiled a new protocol to simplify processes and strengthen collaboration between financial services firms and probate practitioners handling estate administration.

The 2026 UK Finance Estate Administration Banking Protocol marks a significant modernisation of the way financial institutions and probate practitioners interact, replacing the 2012 framework with a clearer, more consistent process. Developed collaboratively by UK Finance, the Law Society, STEP and other legal regulators, the updated protocol provides a transparent structure for verifying practitioner authority, exchanging information and streamlining the release of estate funds—aiming to reduce delays for bereaved families.

The Law Society has welcomed the new guidance as “greatly improved”, noting that it will simplify communication and cut avoidable delays during estate administration. UK Finance emphasises that the updated protocol aims to provide clear and consistent guidance for all probate‑related interactions, ensuring a compassionate yet robust approach aligned with modern bereavement support standards.

You can find out more about the new protocol here.

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