How Much Does a Solicitor Charge for Inheritance Tax?
Solicitor fees for IHT-related work in England and Wales vary depending on the task. Hourly rates typically run from £265 to £390 plus VAT for solicitors and legal executives, with partners charging toward the top of that range.
When an estate is taxable and the executors must submit a full IHT account (form IHT400) to HMRC, the solicitor's work on that return typically costs £877 to £1,169 plus VAT, on top of standard probate fees.
For IHT planning advice, a solicitor drawing up a complex will with trusts may charge a flat fee of £1,000 to £5,000 or more, depending on complexity. A full estate planning package that combines a will, lasting powers of attorney, and trust arrangements will cost more again.
Some firms also use percentage-based fees, ranging from 0.5% to 2% of the estate value. On a £1 million estate, that means £5,000 to £20,000.
Always ask for a written quote before you proceed. Compare fixed-fee and hourly options and make sure you understand what is included.
When an estate is taxable and the executors must submit a full IHT account (form IHT400) to HMRC, the solicitor's work on that return typically costs £877 to £1,169 plus VAT, on top of standard probate fees.
For IHT planning advice, a solicitor drawing up a complex will with trusts may charge a flat fee of £1,000 to £5,000 or more, depending on complexity. A full estate planning package that combines a will, lasting powers of attorney, and trust arrangements will cost more again.
Some firms also use percentage-based fees, ranging from 0.5% to 2% of the estate value. On a £1 million estate, that means £5,000 to £20,000.
Always ask for a written quote before you proceed. Compare fixed-fee and hourly options and make sure you understand what is included.