Probate Fees Calculator UK 2026 | Estimate Your Costs

Trying to work out probate costs while dealing with someone’s death can feel like one more uncertainty you do not need.

This calculator estimates official probate fees based on current UK rates. It can also help compare personal and professional routes. Fees differ across the UK, so make sure to select the correct jurisdiction. No contact details are required, and the result is an estimate, not legal advice.

1. Where was the deceased person permanently living? Probate fees and terminology differ across the UK.
Enter the gross or net value as required by the jurisdiction. If you are unsure, use the estate value builder below.
£
3. How do you expect to deal with the application?
Help me estimate the estate value

Enter approximate values to estimate the net estate. Note: Not all jointly owned assets form part of the probate estate.

Refine my estimate
If using a solicitor or professional. Leave blank if unsure. e.g. property valuation, searches, notices.
Estimated Total Cost
£0.00

Inheritance Tax is separate

This calculator does not include Inheritance Tax. IHT is typically charged at 40% on estates above £325,000, though exemptions like the residence nil-rate band or spouse exemptions may apply.

What can make up the total cost of probate?

Official Court or Confirmation Fee
Paid to the government to process your application.
Copies & Certificates
Required to send to banks and asset holders.
Professional Service
Solicitor or specialist fees for helping with the application.
VAT (Value Added Tax)
Charged on professional fees and some disbursements (20%).
Valuations & Searches
Disbursements for valuing property or searching for wills/notices.
Inheritance Tax (Separate)
A separate tax, entirely distinct from the court application fee.

What your estimate includes

Understanding a probate quote involves separating statutory fees from professional service charges:

  • Official court fees: Set by the government to process your application.
  • Professional fees: Charged by a solicitor or specialist to prepare the application or administer the estate.
  • Disbursements: Additional required costs paid to third parties, such as bankruptcy searches or valuations.
  • VAT: Value Added Tax charged on professional fees and some disbursements (currently 20%).

How probate fees differ across the UK

Jurisdiction Term Small Estate Limit Standard Application Fee
England & Wales Grant of Probate £5,000 £526
Scotland Confirmation £50,000 £351 (up to £250k) or £705 (over £250k)
Northern Ireland Grant of Probate £10,000 £326 (+£81 if personal)

DIY probate or professional help?

Applying personally may reduce professional fees, but you assume responsibility for valuing the estate, completing tax forms, and distributing assets legally. Professional help is often useful for complex estates involving trusts, foreign assets, or inheritance tax, though service scope and costs vary.

Frequently asked questions

Is probate free for a small estate?

Yes, depending on where the deceased lived. In England and Wales, there is no application fee for estates valued at £5,000 or less. In Scotland, the limit is £50,000, and in Northern Ireland, it is £10,000.

Are solicitor fees included in the official application fee?

No. The official application fee goes directly to the court or probate registry. A solicitor's fee is a separate charge for their legal services and time.

Is Inheritance Tax included in probate fees?

No. Inheritance Tax (IHT) is a separate tax collected by HM Revenue & Customs. It is entirely separate from the court's administrative probate fee.

Can I apply for probate without a solicitor?

Yes. You can make a personal application. However, you will be personally responsible for ensuring the estate is valued correctly and distributed according to the law.

Does this calculator save or send my information?

No. Your entries are calculated securely within your own web browser. This calculator does not save, store, or send your data anywhere.

Official sources and important notes
Official fee information last checked: 15 July 2026.
Sources: GOV.UK | Scottish Courts | NI Courts

Privacy: Your entries are calculated in your browser and are not sent or saved by this calculator.