Home / Library / Leaflets and Publications / Small estates / Financial limits

Small estates - financial limits

If the total amount of the deceased's money, property etc. is £30,000 or less, it is called a "small estate", and the Sheriff Clerk's staff will help you prepare the inventory. In calculating the value of the estate, you should not deduct any debts (such as funeral expenses, gas or electricity bills, balance of mortgage) owed by the deceased.

If the estate exceeds the limit, the Sheriff Clerk's staff cannot help to prepare the inventory and you may wish to consult a solicitor.

Application forms, guidance leaflets and booklets on raising a large estate are available from the Inland Revenue website at www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk