Probate & Estate Administration Services Pricing

Losing a loved one is an emotional and difficult time. The legal process of administering an estate can feel overwhelming, particularly when dealing with financial and legal complexities. Having experienced, compassionate legal support can help ease the burden and provide much-needed clarity.

If the deceased left a Will, the named Executors must apply for a Grant of Probate, which gives them the legal authority to administer the estate. If there is no Will or the Will is invalid, an Administrator will need to be appointed to manage the estate.

Why Choose Us?

Our dedicated probate team has extensive experience in handling all aspects of estate administration. We understand that this process comes at a time of grief, and we aim to reduce the stress and administrative burden by providing clear guidance and sensitive support throughout.

We will keep you informed at every stage, providing realistic timeframes and ensuring you and any beneficiaries fully understand the process. Our priority is to be available when you need clarity or reassurance.

Our Services & Fees

The cost of probate varies depending on the complexity of the estate. We offer two main services:

1. Grant of Probate Only

If you require assistance solely with obtaining the Grant of Probate, we will:
✔   Prepare the necessary Inheritance Tax (IHT) account (based on information provided by the Executors)
✔   Complete and submit the Probate application
✔   Liaise with the Probate Registry

✅ Fixed Fees:

  • £500 + VAT for a non-taxable estate
  • £750 + VAT for a taxable estate

2. Full Estate Administration

For those needing full probate and estate administration support, we will:
✔   Handle all legal and financial aspects of administering the estate
✔   Value and collect all assets
✔   Settle outstanding debts & taxes
✔   Prepare and submit the Inheritance Tax return
✔   Distribute the estate to the beneficiaries
✔   Arrange for the sale or transfer of any property

💰 Fees are based on:

  1. Time spent (hourly rate between £133.33 - £200 + VAT)
  2. Value of the estate:
    • 1% of the gross estate (up to £500,000)
    • 0.5% for amounts over £500,000 (plus VAT)

Each estate is unique, and fees will depend on factors such as:
✔   Whether a Will is in place
✔   The size and complexity of the estate
✔   The number of beneficiaries
✔   Whether Inheritance Tax is due
✔   If any claims or disputes arise

Example Fees for Different Estates

✅ Simple Estate (£1,000 - £2,000 + VAT)

  • Married person, first to pass away
  • Shared ownership of family home
  • Two bank accounts in sole name
  • Entire estate left to surviving spouse
  • No Inheritance Tax payable

✅ More Complex Estate (£5,000 - £10,000 + VAT)

  • Unmarried individual with no children
  • Owned property, multiple bank accounts, stocks & shares
  • Estate valued at £500,000+
  • Beneficiaries include relatives & charities
  • Inheritance Tax payable

Additional Costs (Disbursements)

Disbursements are third-party costs payable during the probate process. We manage these on your behalf for a seamless experience.

    Disbursement    Estimated Cost
    Probate Fee    £300.00
    Office Copies for Grant of Probate    £1.50
    Land Registry Search (per copy)    £3.00
    Bankruptcy Search (per beneficiary)    £2.00
    Notices in London Gazette & local paper                                                      £200.00 (approx.)                           
    Property/Asset Valuation Fees    Case-specific

 

⚠️ Inheritance Tax:
The tax payable depends on the estate's size and any previous planning. You can estimate this using HMRC's online calculators: HMRC Inheritance Tax Calculator.

Additional Costs & Exclusions

  • Property sales/transfers are not included in the probate fees but can be arranged separately.
  • If complications arise, such as contested Wills or legal disputes, additional fees may apply. We will always keep you informed.

How Long Does Probate Take?

A typical estate takes 6 – 18 months to fully administer, depending on complexity.

    Stage      Estimated Timeframe                   
    Grant of Probate Application                                                                                3 – 6 months                     
    Asset Collection & Tax Settlements               4 – 12 months
    Final Distribution      Up to 18 months

 

If unexpected issues arise (e.g. missing beneficiaries or legal disputes), the process may take longer. We will keep you informed throughout.

Key Steps in Probate

Pre-Grant of Probate

✔   Locate and verify the original Will
✔   Identify and value all assets & liabilities
✔   Identify beneficiaries under the Will or Intestacy Rules
✔   Prepare and submit Inheritance Tax return & Probate application

Post-Grant of Probate

✔   Collect & distribute assets
✔   Settle outstanding debts & taxes
✔   Prepare final Estate Accounts
✔   Transfer or sell property & investments

Contact Us

If you need assistance with probate or estate administration, our team is here to help.

📞 Call us today: 01284 701323
📧 Email: law@willettsolicitors.com