At the end the month the Probate application fee is set to rise.   It is good news that the government’s original proposal to introduce a “death tax” has been scrapped, as this would have seen grieving families pay up to £6,000 for probate.

However, introducing a flat fee of £273 is still a big rise - 26% for individuals applying for probate without a solicitor.

Since the start of the pandemic, bereaved families have had to deal with extensive delays in probate – which has only marginally improved. We are experiencing an average wait of 6 to 9 weeks for straightforward cases and longer for complex matters.

The probate service still needs serious improvements, especially now people are having to pay considerably more for it. We’re hopeful that the fee increase will bring positive changes.

We are concerned that the universal fee, applied to professionals and individuals applying alike, could encourage families to reduce costs by applying themselves and avoid speaking with a lawyer. Seeking professional advice when dealing with probate will help resolve any complex arrangements with the estate, ensure it is administered in the most tax efficient way and helps relieve pressure at what is a difficult time.  Emma Woollard and her team are experts in the area of probate and estate administration and will be happy to help and advise on your specific circumstances.

For more information and assistance please contact Emma Woollard on 01473 298342 or ewoollard@prettys.co.uk.