Dealing with the loss of a loved one is a difficult and distressing time. At Wellden Turnbull, our team of specialist probate accountants in London and Surrey provides professional guidance to simplify the intricate process of estate administration.

As an ICAEW-accredited firm for probate, we offer a natural extension to our existing tax and accounting services. Because we often already have an in-depth knowledge of our clients’ financial affairs, we can manage the probate process efficiently and sensitively.

Our Probate Services

We can assist executors providing a range of services including:

• Identifying the assets and liabilities of the estate.
• Preparing the Inheritance Tax (IHT) return and claiming all available reliefs.
• Completing the probate application form (PA1) and obtaining the Grant of Probate.
• Gathering in assets and settling debts/liabilities.
• Preparing the estate accounts and distributing the balance to beneficiaries.

Key Stages and Expected Timescales

The probate process varies depending on the complexity of the estate, but a typical matter involves the following stages:

1. Information Gathering (Approx. 4–8 weeks): Identifying all assets (property, bank accounts, investments) and liabilities (debts, funeral expenses).
2. Tax & Application (Approx. 8–12 weeks): Preparing the IHT forms and the application for the Grant of Probate.
3. Grant Issuance (Approx. 8–16 weeks): Once submitted, the Probate Registry typically takes this long to issue the Grant (subject to HMCTS processing times).
4. Estate Administration (Approx. 12–24 weeks): Collecting the assets, paying liabilities, and preparing the final estate accounts.
5. Distribution (Approx. 2–4 weeks): Final distribution of the estate to beneficiaries.

Total estimated timescale: Most estates are concluded within 6 to 12 months. Factors that may increase this time include complex tax issues, the sale of a property, or foreign assets.

Pricing and Fee Information

We believe in full price transparency. Our fees are based on the time spent on the matter and reflect the level of skill and seniority required.

• Average Fee Range: For a relatively straightforward estate, our fees typically range between £3,000 and £5,000 plus VAT.
• Hourly Rates: Our work is charged at hourly rates ranging from £200 to £385 plus VAT.
• Tailored Quote: Every estate is unique. We will provide a fixed fee quote or a detailed estimate following an initial consultation once we understand the volume and complexity of the work.

Potential Disbursements (Third-Party Costs)

Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties. We handle the payment of these on your behalf to ensure a smoother process. Common disbursements include:

• Probate Court Fee: £300 (plus £16.00 per additional copy of the Grant).
• Bankruptcy Searches: £2 per beneficiary.
• Section 27 Notices (London Gazette and local newspaper): Approximately £200–£300 (to protect executors against unknown creditors).

Complaints Procedure

We are committed to providing a high-quality service. If you are dissatisfied with our service, please contact Simon Odam at s.odam@wtca.co.uk. We will investigate your complaint in accordance with our internal complaints procedure.

If we are unable to resolve your complaint, you may have the right to refer the matter to the Legal Ombudsman. They will look at your complaint independently.

• Website: www.legalombudsman.org.uk
• Email: enquiries@legalombudsman.org.uk
• Phone: 0300 555 0333

Alternatively, if your complaint relates to a breach of ICAEW’s Code of Ethics or Probate Regulations, you may contact the ICAEW Professional Conduct Department.

Regulatory Information

Wellden Turnbull is licensed by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) to carry out the reserved legal activity of non-contentious probate in England and Wales.

ICAEW number C006246631. The ICAEW probate register can be found here:  https://www.icaew.com/regulation/probate-services/probate-consumer-hub/icaew-probate-register

• Professional Indemnity Insurance: We maintain professional indemnity insurance in accordance with ICAEW requirements. Our limit of indemnity for probate work is £500,000 per claim.
• Compensation Scheme: In the unlikely event that the firm cannot meet its liabilities, you may be eligible to apply to the ICAEW Probate Compensation Scheme.

Diversity Monitoring

As an accredited firm, we monitor the diversity of our workforce and publish a summary of our findings every two years. You can view our latest Diversity Monitoring Summary here.