Understanding Probate: A Complete Guide to Fees and Requirements

When a loved one passes away, dealing with their estate can feel overwhelming.

One of the most common questions we hear is "Do I need probate?" followed closely by concerns about probate fees and whether they can handle the process themselves.

Let's break this down simply.

Understanding Probate: A Complete Guide to Fees and Requirements

When a loved one passes away, dealing with their estate can feel overwhelming.

One of the most common questions we hear is "Do I need probate?" followed closely by concerns about probate fees and whether they can handle the process themselves.

Let's break this down simply.

Do I Need Probate?

Probate is typically required when the deceased owned a property or high value assets, some examples of when probate is required are:

· If they owned their own home in their sole name

· Owned assets (such as investments or cash in the bank) over £10,000

· Owned joint assets with someone other than their legal spouse

Understanding Probate Fees & Can Probate Fees Be Paid From The Estate?

Probate fees in the UK vary depending on whether you handle the application yourself or use a solicitor:

· Probate application fee (paid to UK Government): £300 if the value of the estate is over £5,000 or Free if the estate is valued less than £5,000 (as of Nov. 2024 - https://www.gov.uk/applying-for-probate/fees)

· Solicitor fees: Usually between £2,000-£5,000 for a simple estate

· Additional costs may apply for complex estates

The good news? Yes, probate fees can be paid from the estate.

DIY Probate: Is It Right for You?

Many people successfully handle probate themselves, especially for straightforward estates. DIY probate can save thousands in solicitor fees, but requires careful organisation and attention to detail.

Navigating probate and dealing with any potential inheritance tax can be complicated and if mistakes are made they can be costly, which is why many people choose to use a probate lawyer or solicitors who specialise in probate.

None

Do I Need Probate?

Probate is typically required when the deceased owned a property or high value assets, some examples of when probate is required are:

· If they owned their own home in their sole name

· Owned assets (such as investments or cash in the bank) over £10,000

· Owned joint assets with someone other than their legal spouse

Understanding Probate Fees & Can Probate Fees Be Paid From The Estate?

Probate fees in the UK vary depending on whether you handle the application yourself or use a solicitor:

· Solicitor fees: Usually between £2,000-£5,000 for a simple estate

· Additional costs may apply for complex estates

The good news? Yes, probate fees can be paid from the estate.

DIY Probate: Is It Right for You?

How Keepl Legacy Makes Probate Easier

This is where Keepl Legacy transforms the probate process. For just £18 per year, you can:

· Store all important documents in one secure digital location

· Provide instant access to nominated guardians when needed

· Save your family countless hours searching for essential paperwork

· Reduce probate costs by having everything organised

· Ensure no assets are overlooked during probate

Whether you choose DIY probate or work with a solicitor, having all documentation properly organised and accessible is crucial. Keepl Legacy provides the perfect solution, giving you peace of mind that your loved ones won't face unnecessary stress or costs during probate.

Start preparing today to make tomorrow easier for your family. With Keepl Legacy, you're not just organising documents – you're giving your loved ones the gift of time to grieve properly, without the burden of administrative chaos.