Your partner through probate

Probate is the legal process to allow the administration and distribution of an estate. It is important to determine who is responsible for the estate after someone passes away, and to validate a Will (if there is one). You'll typically need probate if the deceased held any assets, such as property, bank accounts, or investments, either in their sole name or as tenants in common. This is particularly true if the assets were worth £5,000 or more, though this can vary by institution.

While timelines vary, most estates complete probate within 6 to 12 months, depending on complexity and whether property needs to be sold. However, estates with a large number of assets can take longer, especially if the paperwork is complex or there are delays with any third parties (such as HMRC, banks, or other financial institutions).

The court fee as set by the Probate Registry is £300 (for estates worth over £5,000), plus £1.50 per copy of the Grant. Probate Solicitor or professional fees vary with complexity.

Our fees start from £1,995, including VAT and the Probate Registry fees as outlined above. If you do choose to use professional help, it's often best to choose a fixed fee service so you know what it will cost at the outset.

Estates over the current threshold, which is £325,000 (plus additional allowances in some cases), may incur IHT at 40%. This tax must usually be paid within six months of death to avoid interest. Our services can help to ensure an estate doesn't attract interest unnecessarily, and we can handle all of the necessary IHT paperwork.

That's called dying "intestate". You'll need to apply for Letters of Administration instead of probate, and assets will be shared according to UK intestacy rules.