Managing an estate after a loss can be a difficult and stressful task. Our probate accountants are here to provide a personalised, worry free service that ensures your loved ones are taken care of, while avoiding costly tax liabilities.
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We work closely with executors to gather all the necessary information and manage the complete probate application process, including obtaining the Grant of Probate.
If you prefer professional support, we can act as executors of the estate. Our expertise ensures that the estate is administered efficiently, and your family is supported throughout the process.
Our Inheritance Tax advisers are on hand to help plan ahead, ensuring that the tax on the estate is minimised. This careful planning can significantly reduce the financial burden on your heirs.
We assist in setting up trusts and provide ongoing tax advice, ensuring that assets are passed down in a tax-efficient manner and that your family's wealth is protected.
Whether you need help with probate applications, Estate Administration, or Inheritance Tax planning, our dedicated team is here to assist. We understand the sensitive nature of these matters and are always available to address your concerns.
We’d be happy to arrange a consultation—simply fill in the enquiry form or call us on the number below.
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At Gerald Edelman, we understand that probate can be a complex and emotionally taxing process. Our team is committed to guiding you through every step, ensuring the best possible outcome for you and your family.
Our expertise in inheritance tax and Wealth Management means we offer a service that not only eases the process but also provides significant value for money. We do not charge based on the size of the estate, we fix our costs based on the value and complexity of the work. This approach, combined with our long-standing relationships with clients, makes us the trusted choice for many when it comes to probate.
Probate services involve the formal legal process of administering the estate of someone who has passed away. An individual’s estate comprises all their assets — such as money, investments, property, and personal possessions. No two estates are the same, and the duration and complexity of the probate process can vary significantly.
Our experienced Probate Specialists understand that this can be a difficult and emotional time. We are committed to guiding you through each stage of the process with professionalism, care, and clear communication. The process begins with identifying and valuing all assets within the estate. If required, we will prepare and submit an Inheritance Tax Return to HMRC. Once the return is approved and any applicable tax has been paid, we will then apply for the Grant of Probate. While timescales can differ, obtaining a Grant of Probate typically takes between six and twelve months.
We do not charge for our probate services based on a percentage of the Estate’s value. We work on a time spent basis (hourly rate) and will look to quote an estimate before the engagement begins based on the scope and type of estate which will be based on the complexity of the estate, with factors like multiple beneficiaries, properties, or bank accounts.
There will also be disbursements, which are third-party costs like court fees, bankruptcy searches, and valuation fees.
Probate office fees can be found on https://www.gov.uk/applying-for-probate/fees
Our fees typically range from £3,000 to £10,000 + VAT, depending on the complexity of the estate and specific circumstances, including:
The best ways to minimise Inheritance Tax (IHT) include making a will, staying below the inheritance tax threshold, putting assets into a trust, and giving assets away that are free from Capital Gains Tax. There are also a number of investments that individuals can make that can qualify for BPR, which can be fully exempt from IHT, whilst retaining ownership of the assets.
In terms of cost, accountants are more likely to offer you fixed costs, while solicitors will often take a percentage of the estate.
On average, the process will take anywhere between three to six months.
Survey summary: A total of four individuals participated in the survey. Respondents include individuals from managerial, accounting, and other professional backgrounds. Among them are ICAEW Accountants, a Partner, and a Qualified professional. Participants span various age groups, including individuals aged 65 and over, 55-64, and 35-44. The survey included responses from both male and female participants, all identifying within the White (British/English/Welsh/Northern Irish/Scottish) ethnic group.
None of the respondents identified as having a disability under the Equality Act definition or as neurodivergent. Responses reflect a range of religious affiliations, including Christianity, Judaism, no religion, and a preference not to disclose. A majority of respondents were the first in their families to attend university. Educational qualifications range from A-levels or vocational qualifications to degree-level attainment and none of the respondents reported having caring responsibilities.
Our firm is regulated by the ICAEW for probate and estate administration purposes.
In rare cases where we cannot meet our obligations, you may seek a grant from the ICAEW’s Probate Compensation Scheme.
It further supports clients’ ability to claim from the ICAEW compensation fund. To be eligible, an individual must typically apply within 12 months of becoming aware of the loss. The scheme is discretionary, with grants made at the discretion of the Probate Committee, and has a maximum payout of £500,000 per estate.
As the firm is authorised for non-contentious probate services, there is also an additional access the Legal Ombudsman to which clients maintain a right to complain.
Our firm maintains appropriate level of Professional Indemnity Insurance, with terms clearly stated at the outset of any engagement.
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