Probate court fees are £300 for estates over £5,000. But if you use a solicitor for full probate administration, total costs can range from £2,000 to £15,000+ depending on estate complexity. DIY probate just costs the court fee.
Probate Costs at a Glance (2025)
| Cost Element | Amount |
|---|---|
| Court fee (estates over £5,000) | £300 |
| Court fee (estates under £5,000) | Free |
| Extra copies of grant | £1.50 each |
| DIY probate (total) | £300 |
| Solicitor - grant only | £500 - £1,500 |
| Solicitor - full administration (simple) | £2,000 - £5,000 |
| Solicitor - full administration (complex) | £5,000 - £15,000+ |
| Percentage-based fees | 1% - 4% of estate value |
Court Fees (Probate Registry)
These are fixed fees paid to the government:
- £300 for estates valued over £5,000
- Free for estates under £5,000
- £1.50 per additional sealed copy (get several - banks and institutions need them)
These fees apply whether you DIY or use a solicitor.
Professional Fees
Option 1: Grant Only Service
A solicitor helps you apply for the grant of probate, but you do the administration yourself.
Cost: £500 - £1,500
Best for: People confident handling estate administration but unsure about the application process.
Option 2: Full Probate Administration
Solicitor handles everything: application, valuations, tax, collecting assets, paying debts, distributing estate.
Cost: £2,000 - £15,000+
Best for: Complex estates, executors who don't have time, or anyone who wants peace of mind.
How Solicitors Charge
Fixed fee: Set price regardless of estate size. Best for simple estates.
Hourly rate: £150-350 per hour. Can escalate quickly for complex work.
Percentage of estate: 1-4% of total estate value. A £500,000 estate at 2% = £10,000 in fees. Can be very expensive for larger estates.
DIY Probate
You can do probate yourself using the government's online service. Cost: just the £300 court fee.
When DIY Works
- Simple estate (one property, straightforward assets)
- No inheritance tax to pay
- No disputes expected
- You have time to manage the process
- Clear, professionally drafted will
When to Get Help
- Inheritance tax is due
- Multiple properties or complex assets
- Business interests
- Overseas assets
- Family disputes possible
- No will (intestacy)
- You don't have time
Other Probate Costs
Beyond fees for the grant, there may be other costs:
- Valuations: Property surveys, antique appraisals
- Statutory notices: Protecting against unknown creditors (around £200)
- Conveyancing: If property needs to be sold or transferred
- Tax advice: Complex inheritance tax situations
How to Save on Probate Costs
1. Get Multiple Quotes
Prices vary significantly between providers. Always compare.
2. Ask for Fixed Fees
Avoid percentage-based charging if possible, especially for larger estates.
3. Consider Limited Help
Get help with just the grant application, then DIY the rest.
4. Have a Clear Will
A well-drafted will with clear instructions makes probate simpler and cheaper.
5. Keep Good Records
The deceased's financial records being organised saves professional time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays for probate?
Probate costs come from the estate before distribution. Executors may pay upfront and reimburse themselves.
Is probate cheaper with a solicitor named as executor?
Usually not - solicitor executors charge for their time. Family executors can instruct any solicitor they choose, or DIY.
Can I claim probate costs back?
Yes, legitimate administration costs are paid from the estate before distribution to beneficiaries.
How long do I have to apply for probate?
No deadline, but inheritance tax is due within 6 months, and some assets can't be accessed without it.