By Chantal Haddon Latest News 10 July 2026

Probate Fees Set to Increase by Over 75%: What Every Executor Needs to Know

From 13 July 2026, the cost of applying for probate in England and Wales is set to increase significantly, with the application fee rising from £300 to £526 for estates valued over £5,000.

While the increase is a fixed fee regardless of the value of the estate, it serves as a timely reminder that administering an estate involves far more than completing paperwork. For many executors, it is the beginning of a legal process that carries serious financial responsibilities with personal liability if a mistake is made.

What Has Changed?

The probate application fee is set to increase (subject to parliamentary approval) by over 75%, making it one of the largest rises in court fees in recent years.

The new fee applies to all estates worth more than £5,000 and although this is a fixed administrative cost, it is one of many expenses and responsibilities executors may encounter throughout the probate process.

Being an Executor Is About More Than Paying Probate Fees

Many people agree to become an executor without fully understanding what the role involves.

An executor is legally responsible for administering the deceased’s estate. This can include:

Identifying and valuing assets.
Paying outstanding debts.
Settling any Inheritance Tax due.
Applying for probate.
Distributing the estate in accordance with the Will.
Keeping accurate records throughout the administration.

Whilst many estates are administered without issue, mistakes can happen. If an executor distributes assets too early, overlooks a creditor, or makes an error in inheritance tax, they could become personally liable with financial and legal consequences.

How will the increase in Probate fees impact Executors

Probate fees are one of the expenses that should be fully reimbursed to an executor by the estate but as with inheritance tax the probate fee must be paid before probate and full access to the estate is granted. This means during the early period of estate management executors will often initially fund these charges themselves before they are reimbursed by the estate following grant of probate.

The increase in probate fees is a good example of how understanding your responsibilities and obligations when you take on the role and keeping informed about changes in inheritance tax and legal obligations are essential when you take on the role of executor.

How Can Executors Insurance Help

Executors Insurance is designed to provide protection for lay executors against potential claims that might arise during the administration of an estate. In the same way a solicitor is protected by professional indemnity when administering an estate, Executors Insurance helps protect a lay executor against any claims that might arise due to a mistake in the administration of the estate. Just like probate fees the insurance premium for a policy can be reimbursed from the estate as a reasonable expense.

For many executors, it provides reassurance that they have taken practical steps to reduce potential personal financial exposure while carrying out their legal duties.

Whether you have recently been named as an executor or are preparing to administer an estate, understanding your obligations before beginning the probate process can help avoid unnecessary complications later.

If you would like to learn more about how Executors Insurance may help protect you during the administration of an estate, speak to our specialist team or obtain a quotation today.