Estate planning
Fixed-cost probate
Probate is generally invoked at stressful periods in our lives, when things haven't gone quite to plan. Therefore, it is a good option to consider using an impartial third party to administer this process and offer their experience and advice.
Here are a few scenarios where a probate adviser can add value:
- The deceased died without a will and left a complicated estate to administer.
- The value of the estate is over the Inheritance Tax threshold.
- The estate is still earning a regular income.
- There are doubts about the validity of the will.
- Some family members were deliberately left out of the will but who may want to make a claim on the estate.
- The estate is bankrupt, or there are doubts about its solvency.
- The estate includes foreign property or foreign assets.
- The deceased resided outside the UK for tax purposes.
Banks and solicitors can typically charge between 3 and 6% for handling probate, plus an hourly rate. Omni provide a fixed cost package whereby, for a modest fee, we can guarantee probate fees at just 1.5% plus vat.
Contact us today to discuss your requirements and see how we can help you.
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No obligation. We can meet you at our St Albans office or at your home.
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Q&A
Questions & answers
What is probate?
Probate is the legal right to deal with someone’s estate after they die: collecting assets, paying debts and tax, and passing the rest to the beneficiaries.
Is probate always needed?
Not always. It depends on what the person owned and how. For example, jointly owned property may pass straight to the surviving owner. We can tell you quickly whether it is needed.
How long does it take?
It varies with the estate. Straightforward estates often take several months, while estates with property, inheritance tax or disputes can take a year or more.
What do you charge?
We offer a fixed-cost probate package at 1.5% of the estate plus VAT, so there are no surprises. We will confirm the cost in writing before we start.
Your first meeting is free
Talk to our estate planning team in St Albans. Call 01727 220053 or send us a message.