# How much does probate cost in the UK?

> Cost of · Last reviewed 26 May 2026

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## In short

The HMCTS probate application fee in England & Wales is £300 (estates over £5,000), plus £1.50 per sealed copy. If you use a solicitor for the whole estate, total cost typically lands at 1–5% of the estate's value.

Probate cost depends on whether you do it yourself (DIY) or use a solicitor / probate specialist. DIY is straightforward for simple estates; complex estates (businesses, foreign assets, IHT) usually justify professional help.

Typical range: 300–25000 £ (the probate stage)

## What makes up the cost

| Item | Range | Note |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Probate application fee (England & Wales, estate over £5,000) | £300 |  |
| Sealed copies of the grant | £1.50 each |  |
| Inheritance Tax (IHT) — Nil-Rate Band | £325,000 (frozen to April 2030) |  |
| Residence Nil-Rate Band | Up to £175,000 (on home passing to direct descendants) |  |
| IHT rate above thresholds | 40% (36% if 10%+ to charity) |  |
| DIY administration (own time only) | £300 + sealed copies + time |  |
| Solicitor — fixed fee for grant only | £500–£2,000 |  |
| Solicitor — full estate administration | 1–5% of gross estate value |  |

## What changes the figure

- Estate value and complexity (foreign assets, businesses, multiple properties)
- Whether IHT is payable
- Number of beneficiaries and any disputes
- Whether the will is straightforward

## Ways to spend less

- Solicitor probate fees vary widely; the Law Society publishes guidance on typical price structures
- Many UK banks publish a 'small estates' procedure that pays out without probate up to £25,000–£50,000
- Inheritance Tax on land or qualifying business assets can be paid in up to 10 annual instalments under HMRC rules

## Frequently asked questions

### When isn't probate needed?

Small estates (typically under £5,000–£50,000 depending on the bank), property held jointly with a surviving spouse, and certain insurance products often pay out without probate.

### Who pays the probate fee?

It's paid from the estate, usually by the executor. The executor can be reimbursed if they advance it. Help with Fees (EX160) may reduce the fee on low income.

### Is it cheaper to use a solicitor on a percentage fee?

Not usually. Hourly or fixed quotes are generally cheaper than percentage fees on estates over a few hundred thousand pounds. Always ask for a written estimate.

## Sources

- [GOV.UK — Probate fees](https://www.gov.uk/applying-for-probate/fees)
- [HMRC — Inheritance Tax thresholds](https://www.gov.uk/inheritance-tax)
- [MoneyHelper — Probate](https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/family-and-care/death-and-bereavement/probate-what-it-is-and-how-it-works)

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.