Last Updated on 26th October 2026
We look at what you can do if your inheritance has not been paid.
If you are waiting for an inheritance and have still not received payment, you may be wondering whether the delay is normal or whether there is a problem with the administration of the estate.
Many beneficiaries assume that once probate has been granted, inheritance money will be distributed immediately. In reality, there are a number of reasons why payment may be delayed.
However, if you believe an executor is taking too long or failing to explain the delay, there may be steps you can take.
How long does an executor have to pay beneficiaries?
Executors are generally expected to administer an estate within a reasonable time.
There is a long-established principle known as the Executor’s Year, which effectively allows executors around 12 months from the date of death to collect assets, settle debts, deal with tax matters and distribute the estate.
It can take longer than a year, especially in complex estates, and a delay does not necessarily mean that anything has gone wrong.
Why your inheritance may not have been paid
Common reasons for there to be a delay in paying out an inheritance include:
- The estate contains property that has not yet been sold;
- Inheritance tax issues remain outstanding;
- Assets have not been valued;
- The estate is particularly complex;
- Beneficiaries cannot be located;
- There is a dispute regarding the estate or the will.
When should I be concerned?
While in many cases the delay can be entirely legitimate, you may wish to seek legal advice if:
- Probate was granted a long time ago and no distribution has been made;
- The executor ignores requests for information;
- The executor refuses to explain the delay;
- Estate assets appear to be missing;
- You believe the estate is being mismanaged.
What can I do if the executor is delaying my inheritance?
The first step is usually to request a clear explanation and update regarding the administration of the estate.
If concerns remain, a solicitor can review the circumstances and contact the executor.
Depending on the facts of the case, it may be possible to:
- obtain further information about the estate administration;
- require the executor to account for their actions;
- apply to the court in relation to delays; or
- in serious cases, seek the removal of an executor.
Inheritance delays: Speak to a specialist solicitor
If your inheritance has not been paid and you are concerned about delays, our specialist inheritance dispute solicitors can review the circumstances and advise you on your legal position.
Our Legal 500 recommended team can assess whether the delay appears reasonable or whether further action should be considered.