Wills & Probate
Will Writing Costs 2026: Solicitor Fees, DIY Options, and Free Alternatives
A simple will from a solicitor costs £150-£400. But there are also free options for eligible people and low-cost online services worth considering.
What Makes a Will More Expensive?
| Factor | Cost Impact | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Discretionary trust provisions | +£200-£500 | Complex drafting; trust must be correctly constituted |
| Overseas property | +£200-£1,000 | May require separate will in foreign jurisdiction |
| Business assets | +£300-£1,000 | Business property relief, shareholder agreements |
| IHT planning | +£500-£2,000 | Tax advice integrated into will drafting |
| Many specific gifts | +£100-£300 | Each specific gift requires clear drafting |
| Challenging family circumstances | +£200-£500 | Estranged relatives may raise inheritance act claims |
Solicitor vs Online Service vs DIY
| Option | Typical Cost | Legal Validity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| High street solicitor | £150-£500+ | Full review | Complex estates, IHT planning, trusts |
| Online will service (Farewill, Beyond) | £90-£175 | Guided but not reviewed | Simple estates, clear wishes, no trusts |
| Co-op Legal Services | £110-£150 | Solicitor reviewed | Simple to moderate complexity |
| DIY will kit | £15-£30 | Valid if correctly executed | Very simple estates; understand the risks |
| Free Wills Month / Will Aid | Free or £100-£120 donation | Full solicitor service | Simple wills; eligible age and dates |
Lasting Power of Attorney Costs
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) lets you appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity. There are two types: Property and Financial Affairs, and Health and Welfare. Most people should have both.
| LPA Cost Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Government registration fee (per LPA) | £82 | Payable to Office of the Public Guardian; both LPAs = £164 |
| Solicitor fee (per LPA, preparation) | £250-£600 + VAT | £500-£1,200 + VAT for both LPAs |
| Online DIY (using OPG digital service) | £82 per LPA | Government registration fee only if you complete it yourself |
| Fee exemption/reduction | Free or 50% off | If you receive means-tested benefits; apply to OPG |
Free and Low-Cost Will Writing Options
February/March and September/October each year. For people aged 55+. Participating solicitors write a simple will at no charge in exchange for considering a charity legacy. Check the Free Wills Month website for participating firms.
November each year. Participating solicitors write simple wills in exchange for a suggested donation: £100 for a single will, £180 for mirror wills. The donation goes to charity. Open to all ages.
Many charities partner with solicitors to offer free or subsidised wills year-round, on the understanding you might consider leaving them a legacy. No obligation -- you can still make the will as you wish.