Understanding probate costs upfront helps you plan and avoids surprises during an already difficult time. The total cost depends on the size of the estate, its complexity, whether professional help is needed, and any tax liabilities that arise. Costs are also affected by how long probate takes, as a longer process means higher professional fees and ongoing expenses.
Cost breakdown
| Fee Type | Typical Range | When It Applies |
|---|---|---|
| Solicitor fees | €2,000–€10,000+ | Most estates — the largest single cost |
| Probate Office fees | €100–€1,300+ | All applications (fees vary by application type and net estate value) |
| Property valuation | €150–€500 per property | Estates with property |
| Tax advisor fees | €500–€3,000+ | Estates with tax complexity (CAT, cross-border) |
| Capital Acquisitions Tax | 33% above threshold | Beneficiaries whose inheritance exceeds their tax-free group threshold |
| Miscellaneous | €200–€1,000 | Postage, certified copies, statutory notices, insurance |
Solicitor fees explained
Solicitor fees are typically the largest probate expense. There are three common charging models:
Percentage of estate value— some solicitors charge 1–3% of the gross estate value, plus VAT. For a €500,000 estate, this could mean €5,000–€15,000 plus VAT. This model is less common than it once was.
Fixed fee— many solicitors now offer a fixed fee for straightforward estates, typically €2,000–€5,000 plus VAT. This provides certainty, but clarify what is included.
Hourly rate— typically €200–€350 per hour plus VAT. Cost-effective for simple estates but unpredictable for complex ones.
Probate Office fees
The Probate Office charges a filing fee based on the net value of the estate. Fees differ depending on whether a solicitor or the applicant personally files the application. Solicitor applications attract lower fees, starting at €100 for estates up to €100,000. Personal applications start at €200 for the same band.
| Net Estate Value | Solicitor Application | Personal Application |
|---|---|---|
| Up to €100,000 | €100 | €200 |
| Up to €250,000 | €200 | €400 |
| Up to €500,000 | €350 | €700 |
| Up to €750,000 | €500 | €1,000 |
| Up to €1,000,000 | €650 | €1,300 |
| Over €1,000,000 | +€400 per additional €500k | +€800 per additional €500k |
Tax costs
Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) is a tax on inheritances and gifts in Ireland. It applies to beneficiaries, not the estate itself. The rate is 33% on the amount above the relevant tax-free threshold.
Hidden costs to plan for
Ways to reduce costs
- Organise documents early. Gather the will, death certificates, and bank statements before engaging a solicitor.
- Get multiple quotes. Solicitor fees vary significantly. Obtain at least two or three written quotes.
- Consider a fixed fee. For straightforward estates, a fixed fee provides certainty.
- Coordinate professionals. When the solicitor, tax advisor, and valuer work together, duplication is reduced and the timeline is shorter.
DIY vs solicitor vs coordinated service
| Factor | DIY | Solicitor Only | Coordinated Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | €500–€1,500 | €3,000–€10,000+ | €3,500–€12,000 |
| Best for | Simple estates, no property or tax issues | Estates needing legal expertise | Complex estates needing multiple professionals |
| Tax advice | Not included | Referred separately | Included and coordinated |
| Valuations | You arrange | Solicitor may arrange | Coordinated from the start |
| Risk of errors | Higher — mistakes can be costly | Lower for legal aspects | Lowest — professionals cross-check each other |
| Timeline | Longer if you hit obstacles | Depends on solicitor availability | Typically shorter due to parallel workstreams |
Try our free assessment to understand what your estate needs and get clarity on the costs involved.