If we are instructed to solely obtain the grant of representation, a fixed fee can be agreed. The fee for this would range from £750 plus VAT and disbursements (see below) to £1,200 plus VAT and disbursements, depending upon the complexity of the estate. If no inheritance tax is due and the more straightforward ‘IHT205’ inheritance tax return can be submitted, then the lower end of this price range would apply. If the estate is subject to inheritance tax, or if the full ‘IHT400’ inheritance tax return is required for any other reason, then the higher end of this price range would apply.

If we are instructed to deal with the full estate administration, fees will be charged based on an hourly rate. The cost will therefore vary depending upon how complicated the administration is and how much time is needed to complete it. Fees can range from £3,000 plus VAT and disbursements (see below) to £10,000 plus VAT and disbursements. Fees for relatively straightforward estates, for example where there is a valid will, one property and 2-3 bank accounts, no inheritance tax is payable, and the IHT205 inheritance tax return being required, would be towards the lower end of this price range. Factors that would increase the amount of time required and therefore the costs include:

• More than one property being owned;
• Shares being owned;
• More than 3 bank accounts being held;
• Inheritance tax being payable and/or the IHT400 inheritance tax form being required for any other reason;
• A large number of specific gifts being left and/or a large number of beneficiaries;
• Trusts being included within the will or having been set up during the deceased’s lifetime;
• Lifetime gifts having been made; and
• No valid will (an intestacy).

The above only applies to cases where:

• All assets and liabilities are within England and Wales; and
• There are no challenges to the will or estate distribution;
• The deceased was domiciled in England and Wales.

Fees quoted do not include dealing with the sale of property held within the estate.

All costs are subject to the addition of VAT of 20% and disbursements.

Other fees that apply are:

£6 ID check fee per acting executor/personal representative; and
£42 (£35 plus VAT) fee for electronically sending funds (for example to beneficiaries, and in this case, it would be deducted from the funds sent to that beneficiary)