Grieving families are facing a 75% increase in probate fees starting next month. Probate grants the legal authority to manage someone’s estate, including their property, finances, and belongings, upon their passing.
Currently priced at £300, the probate application fee is set to rise to £526 from July 13 pending approval by Parliament. The Ministry of Justice stated that the fee adjustment aims to cover the costs of an improved service, accounting for inflation and investments in enhanced efficiency.
The last probate fee adjustment was in May 2024, raising it from £273 to £300. Executors named in a will or the closest living relative in the absence of a will can apply for probate. Typically, probate is required for estates exceeding £5,000, subject to variations based on the holding financial institution.
In the event of intestacy, assets are distributed according to legal guidelines. In England and Wales, spouses or civil partners inherit up to £322,000 automatically. Beyond that, the surplus is divided between the spouse and children, with the spouse receiving half and the rest equally split among offspring and grandchildren.
The rules differ in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Individuals seeking to create a will have accessible options such as Free Wills Month in October and March, where solicitors draft wills for free in select locations. Another initiative is Will Aid in November, operating nationwide with suggested donations of £120 for a single will and £200 for mirror wills.
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