Understanding the costs involved in probate is important for both executors and those planning their estates. Here's a breakdown of the typical fees and costs in 2026.
The probate application fee is £300 for estates over £5,000. There is no fee for estates under this threshold. Additional copies of the Grant cost £1.50 each — we recommend ordering at least 4-5 copies.
If you use a solicitor or professional probate service, their fees vary widely. Some charge a fixed fee (typically £2,000-£5,000 for straightforward estates), while others charge a percentage of the estate value (usually 1-4%).
At Castle Family Legal, we offer transparent, competitive probate fees. We'll always give you a clear quote before we start, with no hidden charges.
Additional costs may include: property valuations (£150-£500), land registry searches (£3-£6 per search), statutory advertisements in The Gazette (approximately £100), and asset transfer fees charged by banks and investment companies.
If the estate is liable for Inheritance Tax, this must be paid (or arrangements made) before the Grant is issued. HMRC allows payment in instalments for certain assets, such as property.
Executors are entitled to recover their reasonable expenses from the estate, including travel costs, postage, and any professional fees they've incurred.
Planning ahead can help reduce probate costs. Having an up-to-date Will, clear asset records, and properly structured ownership can make the process faster and cheaper for your executors.
