Work out whether you need probate
Ask each bank what their threshold is.
Many small estates do not need probate at all, and finding that out early saves months and fees.
- How long it takes
- A week of asking
- Typical cost
- Free to check
- What you need before you start
- The estate valuation
- A death certificate
Probate is usually needed if there is property in the deceased's sole name, or if a bank holds more than its own threshold — often somewhere between £5,000 and £50,000.
Anything held jointly with a surviving spouse or partner normally passes automatically and is outside probate.
If you do need it, you can apply yourself online. A solicitor typically charges between 1% and 5% of the estate, or an hourly rate — ask for a fixed fee.
General information, not legal advice. Last reviewed 19 August 2026 by Simon D Campbell. Applies to England and Wales.