Probate costs in 2026: England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland
Court fees for probate and confirmation in each part of the UK, how solicitors charge for estate administration, and when you may not need a grant at all.
Estates in Wales go through the same probate service as England. Executors can apply for the grant themselves, pay a firm for the grant only, or hand over the full administration. Firms must publish prices for uncontested probate.
Compare fees in WalesFees are set by each firm and vary with the work involved. Compare fixed fees side by side on Compare Legal, check what each quote includes, and make sure VAT and disbursements are in the total before you choose.
Not always. Small estates, and assets held jointly that pass automatically to the survivor, may not need it. Banks and other holders set their own limits, so check with each one before you apply.
The firm's own fee, VAT, and disbursements: the costs the firm pays for you, such as searches, registration fees or court fees. Ask whether the fee is fixed and what would make it go up.
Court fees for probate and confirmation in each part of the UK, how solicitors charge for estate administration, and when you may not need a grant at all.