Probate in England and Wales: the fees and how to apply

When someone dies, dealing with their estate — accounts, property, shares — often needs an official document. With a will it is a "grant of probate"; without one, "letters of administration". This covers the process in England and Wales (Scotland and Northern Ireland differ).

Is probate always needed?

Not always. For small amounts, banks and building societies often release money without probate, and jointly owned assets usually pass to the surviving owner automatically. Each institution sets its own threshold, so check with the bank and asset holders.

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How much is the application fee?

If the estate is worth over £5,000, the application fee is £526. For estates of £5,000 or less there is no fee. Extra certified copies of the grant cost £2 each when ordered with the application and £16 each afterwards. A second application (where a grant was already issued) costs £22.

Is there help with the fee?

Yes. People on a low income or certain benefits may get Help with Fees — applied for online or with form EX160 before applying for probate. If you apply online you pay the full fee and get a refund later if the help application succeeds. Help with Fees does not cover extra copies.

How do you apply?

You apply online at GOV.UK or by post. Before that you usually need to deal with Inheritance Tax and report it to HMRC. You will need the original will, the death certificate and a valuation of the estate. Once the grant is issued, the executor gathers the assets, pays debts and distributes the estate according to the will or the law.

Who applies for probate?

If there is a will, the executor named in it applies. If there is no will, the closest relative in the legal order has the right to apply (as administrator). Before applying you usually need to value the deceased's assets and debts and deal with Inheritance Tax: even where no tax is due, you often still have to send the relevant report to HMRC. Only then do you apply for the grant itself.

What happens after the grant is issued?

With a grant of probate (or letters of administration), the executor shows it to banks and organisations to collect funds, sells or transfers property, pays debts and costs, and distributes the rest to beneficiaries under the will or the law. It is wise to keep clear records of every transaction — beneficiaries can ask to see them. For complex estates (a business, foreign assets, disputes) it is worth using a solicitor; many people handle simple estates themselves through the GOV.UK online service.