Written by Daniel Andrews, Partner & Solicitor, Cramp & Mullaney LLP
Last reviewed: April 2026
Two of the most common questions asked by executors and beneficiaries at the outset of an estate administration are how long the process will take and what it will cost. Both questions are understandable, and both are difficult to answer precisely without knowing the specific circumstances of the estate. This article sets out the realistic timescales and the main categories of cost involved in a typical probate.
How Long Does Probate Take?
In a straightforward estate, the entire process from death to final distribution might take between six and twelve months. In a more complex estate, it can take considerably longer, and it is not unusual for estates involving contested claims, foreign assets, business interests, or complex tax positions to take two years or more to resolve fully.
The probate process itself has several stages, each of which takes time. Gathering the information needed to value the estate and prepare the inheritance tax return typically takes two to three months, depending on the complexity of the assets and how quickly third parties such as banks and investment managers respond. The application for the grant of probate currently takes around eight to twelve weeks to be processed by the Probate Registry, though this can vary. Collecting in assets, paying debts, and dealing with the tax position takes further time, and property sales, if required, add their own timescale. The final distribution to beneficiaries should not take place until the executor is satisfied that all liabilities, including tax, have been dealt with.
What Are the Costs?
The costs of probate fall into two broad categories: fixed costs that are the same regardless of the size of the estate, and variable costs that depend on the complexity of the work involved.
The fixed costs include the Probate Registry application fee, which is currently £273 for estates above £5,000, plus £1.50 for each official copy of the grant required. Copies are needed by all financial institutions holding assets, so it is common to order between five and ten copies at the outset.
The variable costs are mainly professional fees. If a solicitor is instructed to deal with the probate, they will charge either a fixed fee agreed in advance, an hourly rate, or in some cases a percentage of the estate value. The appropriate basis will depend on the complexity of the estate and the nature of the work involved. At Cramp and Mullaney we are transparent about our fees and will agree the basis of our charges with you at the outset so there are no surprises.
Other costs that may arise include estate agent fees if a property is to be sold, valuation fees for property, chattels, or specialist assets, and the costs of any professional valuations required for inheritance tax purposes. These costs are met from the estate before distribution to beneficiaries.
Inheritance Tax
Inheritance tax is not a cost of probate as such, but it is a significant financial consideration in some estates. The standard nil rate band is currently £325,000, above which inheritance tax is charged at 40 per cent. There is an additional residence nil rate band of up to £175,000 where a family home is left to direct descendants. Transfers between spouses and civil partners are generally exempt. The interaction of these reliefs and exemptions can be complex, and professional advice at an early stage can sometimes identify planning opportunities that reduce the tax liability.
If you are dealing with a bereavement and need advice on the probate process and likely costs and timescales in your particular circumstances, please contact our team at Cramp and Mullaney. We advise clients across London and the South East and offer a fixed fee initial consultation.
Cramp & Mullaney LLP advises individuals and families across London and the South East on wills, lasting powers of attorney, probate and estate planning. If you would like to discuss your circumstances, please call our Eastbourne office on 01323 720581 or our Battle office on 01424 533222, or email us at info@cmlaw.co.uk. We offer a fixed fee 30-minute initial consultation.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. The law in this area can be complex and the right approach will depend on your individual circumstances. If you need specific advice, please contact Cramp & Mullaney LLP on 01323 720581 (Eastbourne) or 01424 533222 (Battle), or email info@cmlaw.co.uk. We are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA No. 598851).
