Probate Fees & Transparency

What Affects the Total Costs?

The costs related to your matter will depend on several factors. Our fees cover the legal work involved in applying for the grant of probate (or letters of administration), collecting assets, paying debts, and distributing the estate to beneficiaries. In addition to our legal fees, the following disbursements are typically payable:

• Probate Registry fee:£300 for estates over £5,000 (set by HMRC). When applying for a grant of probate, additional sealed copies of the grant cost £1.50 each — we recommend ordering several copies as bank accounts, land registry and other institutions each require one.
• London Gazette notice:Placing a statutory notice in the London Gazette (and local press where appropriate) protects against unexpected claims from unknown creditors. This is a standard step in estate administration and typically costs £150–£300.
• Inheritance tax:Where the estate exceeds the nil-rate band (£325,000), inheritance tax is payable at 40% on the excess. Inheritance tax must be paid — or arrangements made with HMRC — before the grant of representation is issued. We advise on all available allowances, including the residence nil rate band (RNRB), as part of the probate process.
• Residence nil rate band:Where property in the estate passes to direct descendants, the residence nil rate band (RNRB) may reduce the inheritance tax payable. We advise on all available allowances as part of the estate administration process.
• Time spent:Our legal fees reflect the time spent on your matter. For straightforward estates, we offer fixed fees. For complex estates — involving property, multiple beneficiaries, or disputes — we will provide a tailored estimate. All fees are confirmed in writing before any work begins.
• Supporting documents:Obtaining death certificates, valuations, and other supporting documents required for the probate application may incur additional costs, which we will always explain in advance.