When do I choose my package and pay?
We don't charge upfront. That means you can start The Probate Wizard and perform much of the probate process for free. You choose a package that suits you after you have entered all the information about the estate. Until then, you can stop at any time. Read more about our service.
Do you have fixed prices?
Yes. We do not charge by the hour or by the value of the estate. Find out more about our prices.
Why are your prices so competitive?
The Probate Wizard is vastly cheaper than most other probate services because it is essentially a self-service solution. However, that doesn't mean it's difficult to use. In fact, the Wizard has been designed by probate experts to make the process as easy as possible.
Will you support me?
You're incredibly important to us and we'll be here if you need us. While using the Wizard, you can call us, use our online chat facility or send us an e-mail. The guides, videos and tips throughout the Wizard should make the probate process a breeze. We can't answer your legal advice queries, but if you need legal advice you may be able to seek professional help and resume the Wizard later.Can I use the Wizard if there may be inheritance tax?
Yes, and you don't have to know the inheritance tax position before you start. The Wizard will calculate inheritance tax for you after applying exemptions fully and accurately. If inheritance tax is due, you can purchase our Probate Reports package (our Grant of Probate package will not be available). You can use the information in the reports to pay inheritance tax, or hand the reports to a professional, such as a solicitor, to pay tax on your behalf.
I don't know if I need a grant of probate: what should I do?
Sometimes a grant of probate is not required. If you're not sure whether this is the case, don't worry: the Wizard will work it out for you! If a grant is not required, you will be able to purchase our Probate Reports package. This helps you distribute the estate, it can be kept as a detailed record of the administration and the estate accounts can be handed to beneficiaries.
Do I have to attend a probate registry?
If you choose our "Grant of Probate" package, one of the executors or administrators will attend a probate registry for around 15 minutes. If you don't want to attend a probate registry, you can purchase our Probate Reports package and take it to a solicitor or other professional. They will apply for the grant on your behalf.
How long will the probate process take?
The probate process can take anything from a few weeks to (in exceptional circumstances) over a year. Whether you complete the Wizard over the course of a wet Sunday afternoon or over a number of months, we'll be here for you. You can take it at your own pace and work in your own time.
Is the entire process "online"?
The Probate Wizard is based online, but certain things cannot be conducted over the Internet. For example, the person applying for the grant of probate will need to attend a probate registry for around 15 minutes. Also, most banks, utility companies and other organisations will request a copy of the death certificate, sent by post, and will ask you to complete and return their forms by post.
Do I need a solicitor for probate?
No. Up to 68% of probates are conducted without professional assistance. See our video: Do I need a solicitor for probate?
However, sometimes there are good reasons to consider a solicitor or other legal professional. Perhaps because you do not feel comfortable conducting the process yourself, or because the will or estate is disputed. In these cases, The Probate Wizard may not be for you.
You may find that you wish to seek professional assistance in addition to using The Probate Wizard, for example to pay inheritance tax or to set up trusts.
Is The Probate Wizard right for me?
To find out more about who The Probate Wizard is for, read our guide.
Can the Wizard help me administer foreign property?
The Wizard helps you to value foreign assets and debts as part of the application for a grant of probate. Some of these foreign assets (typically, bank accounts and other "moveable" assets) can be dealt with using a grant obtained in England & Wales.
A grant obtained in England & Wales usually cannot be used to administer "immovable" foreign assets, such as houses. You may have to take out a separate grant in the country where the asset is situated. The Probate Wizard cannot help you to obtain a foreign grant.
What is "The Law Wizard"?
The Law Wizard is the company behind The Probate Wizard. We're not a law firm but we're run by legal experts. Find out more about us.
Are you insured?
Yes, we have professional indemnity insurance cover.
Can I create a will using The Probate Wizard?
No, the Wizard is only for managing the probate process. The Wizard helps you to interpret a deceased person's will, if there is one, but you cannot create a will for yourself.
