Guides
Probate, explained in plain English
Everything an executor needs to understand before deciding how to handle an estate in England & Wales. No jargon, no sales pressure, and honest about when you need a solicitor.
Cost · 7 min read
How much does probate cost in the UK?
A full breakdown of probate costs in England & Wales: the HMCTS application fee, copies of the grant, solicitor charges and the DIY route. Updated with current fees.
Read the guideProcess · 6 min read
Do I need probate?
Not every estate needs a grant of probate. How to work out whether you need one, based on property ownership, account balances and how assets were held.
Read the guideProcess · 6 min read
How long does probate take?
A realistic timeline for probate in England & Wales, stage by stage, and the specific things that cause the biggest delays.
Read the guideProcess · 8 min read
How to apply for probate without a solicitor
A step-by-step walkthrough of applying for a grant of probate yourself in England & Wales, what you need to hand, and when to stop and get advice.
Read the guideProcess · 5 min read
Grant of probate vs letters of administration
The difference between a grant of probate and letters of administration, who can apply for each, and what changes in practice when there is no will.
Read the guideTax · 7 min read
Inheritance Tax explained: the nil-rate bands
How the Inheritance Tax nil-rate band, residence nil-rate band and transferable allowances work, with the thresholds and the seven-year gift rule.
Read the guideWhat would a solicitor cost?
Many firms charge a percentage of the estate, so the bill grows with the estate value even though the work is much the same. Move the estate value to compare.
Typical solicitor charge
£8,000 – £20,000
Indicative, based on 2%–5% of estate value. Hourly charges are often added on top.
This platform
£349
One fixed fee per estate, whatever the estate is worth. The HMCTS fee of £526 is paid separately to the court either way.
Indicative difference on a £400,000 estate: £7,651 – £19,651
Illustration only, not a quote. Solicitor charges vary widely and a complex estate may need one — that is not a cost worth avoiding.
Check if this estate is suitable