Probate update: Copy grant and will fee to surge by 967%
On 17th November 2025, the fee for obtaining copy grants and wills is set to rise from £1.50 to £16 representing a 967% increase. The change will apply to all copy requests including:
- Copies ordered at the time of applying for a grant
- Obtaining sealed and certified copies
- Any subsequent copy requests once a grant has been issued
To illustrate the impact, the fee for applying for a grant and 10 copies will go from £315 (£300 application fee + £15 for 10 copies) to £416 (£300 application fee + £160 for 10 copies).
It is important to note that, for paper grant applications prepared before the change but received on or after 17th November, the new fee will apply from the date of receipt, even if posted earlier.
The Ministry of Justice has confirmed in the Explanatory Memorandum to The Court and Public Guardian Fees (Miscellaneous Amendments) Order 2025 that the increase reflects the actual cost for providing the service:
“The estimated cost to HMCTS of providing single copies of documents under the Find a Will service equates to £16 per copy. The £1.50 fee therefore significantly under recovers its cost, despite fees being set with the intention of full cost recovery. This statutory instrument will therefore increase the fee for users to obtain copies of documents within the Principal Registry of the Family Division, district registries and any sub-registries attached, which includes the “Find a Will” service and individual users requesting extra copies of probate grants from £1.50 to £16, to align more closely with its costs and ensure that HMCTS can continue to deliver its services effectively”.
The registration fee for Lasting Powers of Attorney will also increase on this date from £82 to £92.
Our dedicated Probate and Estate Administration team has a wealth of experience assisting with the daunting task of administering an estate, relieving the family of the administrative burden and stress of finalising a loved one’s affairs. We stay closely attuned to regulatory developments, and are well placed to guide clients through these changes with clarity and care.
Please contact Emma Jones should you have any questions.
Subcribe to news and viewsThe estimated cost to HMCTS of providing single copies of documents under the Find a Will service equates to £16 per copy. The £1.50 fee therefore significantly under recovers its cost, despite fees being set with the intention of full cost recovery.
