Finding a person’s will

    There are a number of places you can check if someone has died to see where their will has been stored.

    You should check:

    • the person’s paperwork at home
    • with their solicitor
    • with their bank
    • companies that offer the storage of wills – you can search online
    • the Principal Registry of the Family Division

    Solicitors, banks and will storage companies need proof of the death (the medical or death certificate) and proof that you’re the executor named in the will.

    Contact the Principal Registry of the Family Division

    The will may be stored at the Principal Registry of the Family Division.?

    The Principal Registry of the Family Division

    Record Keeper’s Department?

    First Avenue House

    ?42-49 High Holborn

    ?London

    WC1V 6NP?

    The Principal Registry of the Family Division?
    Telephone: 020 7947 7022
    Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
    Find out about call charges

    The Principal Registry of the Family Division? needs proof of the death – and that you’re the executor named in the will. If there are no executors, you may still be able to get the will.

    An executor is someone named in a will who deals with a person’s property and possessions after they die.