The Ministry of Justice has confirmed that the cost of applying for probate will increase from £300 to £526 from July 13, representing a 75 per cent rise for grieving families. The hike, which is subject to parliamentary approval, is attributed to “rising inflation” and “investment in delivering an efficient and modern service”.
Previous Increases and Industry Reaction
In May 2024, the fee had already been raised from £273 to £300, a 10 per cent increase. Rachel Vahey, head of public policy at AJ Bell, described the latest rise as “eye-watering”. She stated: “Families might expect a better probate service in return for higher costs, but the reality could be quite different.”
Understanding Probate
Probate is the legal process required to administer a deceased person’s estate, including property, money and possessions. A grant of representation proves the administrator’s authority, and the specific form depends on whether a will exists. Over 250,000 probate applications are typically made in England and Wales each year, with January to March being the busiest period.
Impact on Inheritance Tax and Pensions
Rachel Vahey also warned that including pensions in inheritance tax calculations could lead to more families facing inheritance tax or a larger tax bill. She added: “It could also create extra paperwork and stress for bereaved families at an already difficult time, potentially delaying pension payouts and adding further costs to the estate.”
Processing Times and Complexities
Money Saving Expert, founded by Martin Lewis, explained that after applying for probate, families may wait up to 12 weeks for the grant, though online applications can be quicker. Complicated cases, such as those requiring follow-up information, can take longer. The overall probate process can take months, and in complex cases, more than a year, especially if the estate includes property to sell or multiple investments.
