Understanding Probate Fees: What to Expect
When dealing with the estate of a loved one, understanding the costs involved in the probate process can help you plan and avoid unnecessary uncertainty. Probate fees can vary depending on the size and complexity of the estate, including the number of assets, properties, and beneficiaries involved.
At Haighs Solicitors, we aim to provide a clear and transparent approach to probate costs so you know what to expect from the outset.
How Probate Costs Are Calculated
The exact cost of probate services will depend on the individual circumstances of the estate. For example, an estate with few beneficiaries, limited assets, and no property will usually fall at the lower end of the cost range. Estates with multiple beneficiaries, property, or several bank accounts and investments may require more time and therefore incur higher fees.
Typically, applying for the Grant of Probate, collecting assets, and distributing the estate takes between 8 and 12 hours of legal work.
Based on our hourly rate, probate fees usually range between £2,400 and £3,600 including VAT.
For example, if the work takes 10 hours and the hourly rate of the solicitor handling the matter is £250 plus VAT, the total legal fee would be £3,000 including VAT.
When you instruct Haighs Solicitors, we will provide a written letter explaining exactly how our fees will be calculated so you have full clarity before the work begins.
Additional Costs (Disbursements)
In addition to legal fees, there are some standard disbursements that may apply during the probate process. These are third-party costs that we pay on your behalf.
Typical disbursements include:
- Probate application fee – £155
- Bankruptcy searches – £2 per beneficiary
- Notice in The London Gazette – approximately £62.15 plus VAT
The London Gazette notice helps protect the estate against unexpected claims from unknown creditors.
What Our Probate Fees Include
Our probate service covers the full administration of the estate. The work typically includes:
- Identifying the executors, administrators, and beneficiaries
- Establishing the full value of the estate, including assets and liabilities
- Preparing the legal statement required to obtain the Grant of Probate
- Submitting the application to the Probate Registry
- Contacting banks and other organisations to collect assets
- Paying any outstanding debts or liabilities
- Confirming tax matters are settled with HMRC
- Preparing estate accounts
- Distributing the estate to beneficiaries in accordance with the Will
Our goal is to ensure the process is handled efficiently and correctly while keeping executors informed at every stage.
Assumptions Used in Our Cost Estimates
Our estimated probate fees are based on a number of common circumstances, including:
- A valid Will is in place
- The estate contains no more than one property
- There are only two or three bank or building society accounts
- There are no complex assets or investments
- There are no more than three beneficiaries and two executors
- There are no disputes between beneficiaries
- No inheritance tax is payable and no detailed HMRC account is required
If any of these factors change, additional legal work may be required which could affect the overall cost.
Potential Additional Costs
Some estates involve more complex legal matters which may increase the cost of probate administration.
Additional costs may apply if:
- There is no Will
- The estate includes shares or investments
- The estate contains business interests or agricultural property
- There are foreign assets or assets held in trust
- Disputes arise between beneficiaries
If additional work is required, we will always discuss this with you and provide a clearer estimate once we have reviewed the details of the estate.
Please note that costs relating to the sale or transfer of any property within the estate are not included in these probate fees.
Probate Timescales
The time required to complete probate can vary depending on the complexity of the estate and the organisations involved.
On average, estates within this fee range are usually completed within six to nine months.
Typical stages include:
- Obtaining the Grant of Probate – approximately 6 to 10 weeks
- Collecting assets from banks and financial institutions – 8 to 12 weeks
- Distributing the estate to beneficiaries – 3 to 4 weeks
Throughout this process, our team keeps you informed so you always know the current stage of the estate administration.
Speak to Our Probate Team
If you need assistance with probate or estate administration, our experienced team at Haighs Solicitors is here to help guide you through the process with clarity and professionalism.
Contact us today to discuss your situation and receive further advice.
