Probate Accountants & Estate Administration
What makes PG Owen unique?
We are almost unique in being able to offer Probate Services to our clients, allowing us to offer the ".... and beyond" element of our purpose. Again our all-around knowledge allows us to help those left behind to deal with the deceased's affairs in a tax-effective manner.
We offer a fixed fee for this work and carefully work with the executors to provide the precise services required. We do this by firstly ensuring the executors are aware of all their responsibilities and then we agree on which elements of those responsibilities they require assistance with.
We can then adjust our services as we go and the executors can be updated as to adjusted costs throughout.
We're here to help!
Feel free to get in touch with us any time.
A Probate Services Story
We were asked to deal with the probate of a private tax client who had died. She left her assets to her only son, which would have created an immediate inheritance tax charge on the estate. We discussed this with the executor, who was her son and it was agreed to create a Deed of Variation passing the entire estate to the father, who was still alive but was in care. The effect was to defer the inheritance tax liability until the second death.
What a probate accountant actually does
When someone dies, two jobs run alongside each other. There is the legal work of proving the will and obtaining the grant, and there is the financial work of valuing the estate, settling the deceased's tax affairs and reporting the estate's own income while it is being administered. The second is accountancy, and it is the part families are least prepared for.
We handle the financial side end to end: valuing assets at the date of death, preparing the inheritance tax account, finalising the deceased's income tax position, dealing with income the estate earns during administration, and preparing estate accounts for the beneficiaries. Where a solicitor is already involved we work alongside them. Where one is not yet involved, we will tell you honestly whether you need one.
How we work with families
- A free first conversation, at your home if that is easier
- A fixed price agreed before anything starts, so the estate knows the cost
- Plain English at every step, and one named person to call
- Coordination with the solicitor, the bank and HMRC so you are not the go-between
Inheritance tax is usually the question underneath the question. Our inheritance tax factsheet sets out the thresholds and reliefs, and we will talk you through how they apply to this particular estate.
Where we work
Families come to us across Bath and North East Somerset and West Wiltshire. Call the office nearest you: Midsomer Norton on 01761 410444, Warminster on 01985 213130, or our Bath service on 01225 422183.
Frequently asked questions on Probate Services
What are probate services, and why do I need them?
Probate services refer to the legal and financial process of dealing with a deceased person’s estate. This involves valuing the estate, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries. Professional probate services ensure the process is carried out efficiently, accurately, and in compliance with UK law, helping to reduce stress for executors and families during a difficult time.
How long does probate take in the UK?
The probate process typically takes 6–12 months in the UK, depending on the complexity of the estate. Straightforward cases may be completed faster, while larger or contested estates may take longer. Using expert probate services can help speed up the process and resolve potential issues quickly.
What does a probate solicitor or advisor do?
A probate solicitor or advisor assists executors in managing the probate process. This includes valuing assets, applying for the Grant of Probate, settling outstanding debts, calculating inheritance tax, submitting necessary documentation, and distributing the estate to beneficiaries. Professional advisors also ensure compliance with legal obligations, saving time and reducing potential mistakes.
Do I need probate for every estate?
Not all estates require probate in the UK. If the deceased’s assets were held jointly (e.g., joint bank accounts or jointly owned property), they will usually pass automatically to the surviving owner. However, probate is often required if the estate includes significant assets or property held solely in the deceased’s name. Seeking professional advice ensures the right steps are taken.
How much do probate services cost?
The cost of probate services varies depending on the size and complexity of the estate. Some providers charge a fixed fee, while others charge a percentage of the estate’s value. At PG Owen, we offer transparent, cost-effective probate services and provide a clear estimate based on your needs. Contact us for a tailored quote.
What documents are needed to apply for probate?
To apply for probate, you’ll typically need the original Will, the death certificate, details of the deceased’s financial assets (e.g., bank statements, property valuations), and information on any outstanding debts. Working with probate professionals can simplify document collection and ensure nothing critical is overlooked.
What happens if there’s no Will?
If there’s no Will, the deceased’s estate will be distributed according to UK intestacy rules. This means only certain relatives can inherit, and the process may be more complex. In such cases, probate services can help guide the administrator of the estate through the legal steps required to manage and distribute assets.
Do I need to pay inheritance tax when handling probate?
Inheritance tax (IHT) may be payable if the estate’s total value exceeds the current threshold (£325,000 as of 2023). The standard rate is 40% on the amount above the threshold. Expert probate and tax advisors can help calculate and file IHT, ensuring compliance while exploring any available exemptions or reliefs.
Can probate be contested, and if so, what happens?
Yes, probate can be contested if someone disputes the validity of the Will or the way the estate is being administered. Common reasons include claims of undue influence, improper execution of the Will, or disagreements over inheritance. Probate services can offer guidance in resolving disputes and ensuring the process adheres to legal requirements.
Why choose PG Owen for probate services?
At PG Owen, we provide compassionate, experienced probate services tailored to your needs. Our team simplifies the process for executors and beneficiaries, ensuring compliance with UK laws, efficient management of inheritance tax, and transparent communication throughout. Let us take the stress out of probate so you can focus on what matters most.
Diversity Survey
We are required to undertake diversity questionnaires within our team as part of being regulated for probate work. As we live in a small rural community, some of the questions result in a high level of identical responses, particularly those relating to race or religion.
We do seek to be diverse within our team but we are limited by the local population. Likewise, it goes without saying that the level of academic achievement is high as would be expected for a professional firm with 64% having A level qualifications or above.
Of the relevant responses received from our recent questionnaire, 27% were aged under 24 with age ranges, 25 to 34, 35 to 44 and over 65 all registering 18%, the remainder falling between the various bands.
50% were male and 50% female with 18% being married or cohabiting and 64% single or widowed.
We provide probate services from our offices in Bath, Midsomer Norton, and Warminster, covering clients across Somerset, Wiltshire, and the surrounding area.
Dealing with an estate? PG Owen offers full probate services at a fixed fee agreed upfront. Initial consultations are always free. Get in touch.