Form

How to report a lost will to support a probate application

Updated 20 August 2025

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This publication is available at /government/publications/report-a-will-is-lost-to-support-a-probate-application/how-to-report-a-lost-will-to-support-a-probate-application

Overview

Use this form to tell HMCTS an original will is lost and to include it when you apply for probate. Only use this form if you are representing yourself and the will has not been revoked.

If you’re an executor, you may need to complete this form if you:

  • cannot find the original will but have a photocopy of it
  • sent the original will by post and the courier lost it
  • found out a solicitor has mislaid the original will

If you are a probate practitioner do not complete this form. You must provide an affidavit or statement of truth and exhibits to lead to a R54 NPCR 1987 order to prove the will is lost.

Apply for probate

Send this form in with your probate application if:

  • you have a copy of the lost will
  • you swear an affidavit confirming what was in the will - seek legal advice if you’re not sure what to put in an affidavit

The will is invalid if:

  • it was created by the person who created the will ‘testator’ but they did not sign it or no one witnessed it and
  • there’s no other will

You may also be asked to send this form in separately from your probate application. This could happen if you send in a copy of a will, instead of the original.

How to report a lost will

  1. Download the form.
  2. Fill in all sections.
  3. Print the form.
  4. Sign and date the application.
  5. Send the completed form to:

HMCTS Probate
PO Box 12625
Harlow
CM20 9QE

What happens next

HMCTS will consider the evidence in your application.

If your application is successful, you will be able to apply for probate, if not, you will need to apply for probate when there is not a will (known as intestacy).

Contact us

If you need help completing this form, you can contact us.

Probate helpline
Telephone: 0300 303 0648
Monday to Friday, 9am to 1pm
Closed on weekends and bank holidays

Find out about call charges

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