Losing a loved one is never easy—and if you’ve been named as the executor of their will, it can feel like a big responsibility at a difficult time. At Eoin O’Gorman Solicitors, based on Crescent Quay, Wexford, we’re here to help make the process of administering an estate as clear and stress-free as possible.

In this post, we’ll explain the key steps involved and what to expect when administering a deceased’s estate in Ireland.

What Does “Administering an Estate” Mean?

When someone passes away, everything they owned in their sole name at the date of their death, ie — money, property, personal belongings—is called their estate. Administering the estate means collecting all their assets, paying off any debts or taxes, and distributing what’s left to the beneficiaries (the people named in the will).

If the person left a will, the person responsible for managing the estate is called the executor. If there’s no will, a close family member can apply to become the administrator of the estate.

Step 1: Registering the Death

The first step is to register the death with the local Civil Registration Office. This is typically done by a close family member or the funeral director. You’ll need the death certificate to move forward with legal matters.

Step 2: Locating the Will

The next step is to locate the original will, which is usually stored safely with a solicitor or among the deceased’s personal papers. The will names the executor(s) and sets out the deceased’s wishes regarding their property, money, and possessions.

Step 3: Applying for a Grant of Probate (or Letters of Administration)

If there is a will, the executor must apply for a Grant of Probate through the Probate Office or District Probate Registry. This legal document gives the executor the authority to deal with the estate.

If there is no will, a family member must apply for Letters of Administration, and the law determines and directs who inherits the estate under intestacy rules.

Our team at Eoin O’Gorman Solicitors can help prepare and file the probate application forms on your behalf to ensure everything is done correctly and efficiently.

Step 4: Valuing the Estate

The executor or administrator must gather information about all the deceased’s assets and debts. This includes:

  • Property
  • Bank accounts
  • Investments
  • Pensions
  • Life insurance
  • Loans or credit card balances

Accurate valuations are essential for probate and for calculating any inheritance tax (CAT), if applicable.

Step 5: Paying Debts and Taxes

Before distributing the estate, all debts must be settled—this includes any outstanding bills, loans, and Revenue obligations. If Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) is due, it must be paid by the beneficiaries, though the executor usually assists.

At this stage, we ensure compliance with Revenue reporting, including submitting an Inland Revenue Affidavit (Form SA.2) if required.

Step 6: Distributing the Estate

Once everything is in order including the required Revenue clearances, the executor can distribute the remaining assets to the beneficiaries as outlined in the will—or according to intestacy laws if there is no will.

This might include:

  • Transferring property
  • Closing and distributing bank accounts
  • Handling personal items

We guide you through each of these steps with care and clarity.

How Long Does the Process Take?

It varies depending on the complexity of the estate, but in most cases, 6 to 12 months is typical. Delays can occur if there’s no will, if the estate includes property, or if there are disputes or tax issues.

Need Help Administering an Estate?

Whether you’re an executor or a family member unsure where to start, we’re here to support you. At Eoin O’Gorman Solicitors, we’ve helped hundreds of clients in Wexford and beyond with probate and estate administration.

📧 Email us at info@ogormansolicitors.ie
📍 Visit our office on Crescent Quay, Wexford

Let us handle the legal process—so you can focus on what matters most.