--- title: "Executor Accounting Services | HLS Accounts Cardiff" description: "Executor support with estate accounts, tax returns and HMRC paperwork, so you can distribute the estate with clear figures and fewer delays." canonical: "https://hlsaccounting.co.uk/services/executor-accounting-services" --- Personal Financial & Specialist # Executor Accounting Services We help executors in Cardiff and South Wales manage estate accounts, tax returns and inheritance tax compliance after a bereavement. With nearly ten years of experience and a gentle, clear approach, we'll guide you through every step so nothing gets missed. [Book a free consultation](https://calendly.com/hlsaccounting/new-client-meeting) 10 Years supporting executors ACCA Chartered Certified Fixed Fee quotes upfront ![Accountant and executor reviewing estate accounting documents at a desk in a modern office, with calculator and laptop visible.](/_next/image?url=%2Fapi%2Fmedia%2Ffile%2Festate-executor-accounting-assistance-realistic-studio.jpg%3Fv%3D1773064237464&w=1536&q=75&dpl=dpl_DEc4fGhEc1SCRZZutzoEsRuDy1CJ) ## What we cover for executors From the initial asset valuation through to final distribution accounts, we handle all the financial and tax work an executor needs to fulfil their duties and obtain clearance from HMRC. ### Inheritance Tax Returns Preparing and submitting IHT forms to HMRC, even when no tax is due, and negotiating to minimise liabilities where possible. ### Estate Accounts Preparation Collating all financial information, calculating the estate's position, and producing clear accounts for beneficiaries and HMRC. ### Tax Clearance & Distribution Obtaining formal clearance from HMRC and preparing final distribution statements so assets can be transferred to beneficiaries. ## Helping you fulfil your duties as executor Acting as an executor means taking on serious responsibilities, often at a difficult time. You need to report the estate's financial position to HMRC, work out any inheritance tax due, and keep accurate records before you can distribute assets to beneficiaries. We take that weight off your shoulders by handling the accounts, tax returns and compliance work from start to finish. Our process starts with a free consultation to understand the estate and what you've already gathered. We'll give you a clear, fixed-fee quote based on the complexity, then guide you through collating asset and liability information. Once we have everything, we prepare the necessary HMRC forms, calculate any inheritance tax, and submit returns on your behalf. We'll also handle communication with HMRC, negotiate where appropriate to reduce liabilities, and obtain the clearance you need before distribution. > We explain every step in plain English so you always know where things stand. More information Many executors worry about missing a deadline, undervaluing assets, or making a mistake that could lead to penalties or personal liability. That's exactly why having an accountant involved early makes sense. We've worked with estates of all sizes across Cardiff, from straightforward single-property cases to more complex situations involving trusts, business interests or overseas assets. If disputes arise or beneficiaries need tracing, we'll flag that straight away and work with your solicitor to keep things on track. If the estate involves ongoing trusts or rental income during administration, we'll prepare the administration period tax returns and advise on any continuing obligations. Once HMRC clearance comes through, we produce final distribution accounts for the beneficiaries, showing exactly what they're entitled to receive. It's a full picture that protects you and gives everyone confidence the estate has been handled properly. ### What's included in our executor service - Review of all estate assets, liabilities and prior transactions - Completion and submission of inheritance tax forms (IHT205, IHT400 or IHT100 as appropriate) - Liaison with HMRC and negotiation to minimise tax where possible - Preparation of estate accounts for executors and beneficiaries - Administration period tax returns if the estate generates income - Final distribution statements and tax clearance documentation We're licensed to carry out probate work and hold full professional indemnity insurance, so you're covered. Most estates we handle are based in Cardiff, Barry, Penarth and the Vale, though we're happy to help with South Wales estates wherever the executor is located. If you're working with a probate solicitor, we'll coordinate closely to avoid duplication and keep costs down. Executor work can feel overwhelming, especially if you've never done it before. Our role is to make the financial side straightforward, keep you informed at every stage, and make sure nothing falls through the cracks. Once the estate is wrapped up, you'll have a clear record of everything and the peace of mind that it was done right. ### Ready to get started? Book a free consultation and we'll talk you through the process, answer your questions, and give you a fixed-fee quote with no obligation. [Book a free consultation](https://calendly.com/hlsaccounting/new-client-meeting) ### Also worth considering - [Personal Financial Health Checks](/services/personal-financial-health-checks)→ - [Trusts & Estate Accounting](/services/trusts-and-estate-accounting)→ - [Wealth Management Support](/services/wealth-management-support)→ ## You might also need Personal Financial & Specialist ### Pension Planning Advice Tax-smart pension planning for sole traders and directors. We review what you have, set a contribution plan, and make sure it is recorded correctly for HMRC. [Pension Planning Advice→](/services/pension-planning-advice) ## Before you get in touch Here are the questions executors most often ask us when they first get in touch. How much does executor accounting cost? We quote a fixed fee after understanding the estate's complexity. Straightforward cases with a single property and bank accounts typically start from around £750 plus VAT for preparing accounts and tax returns. Estates involving trusts, disputes, overseas assets or business interests will cost more, but we'll always agree the price upfront before starting work. Do I need an accountant if the estate is below the inheritance tax threshold? Yes, in most cases. Even if no inheritance tax is due, you still need to report the estate's value to HMRC and may need to submit forms like IHT205 or IHT400. We make sure everything is accurate and compliant, and we can often identify reliefs or exemptions that reduce reporting burdens. How long does the process take? It depends on the estate's complexity and how quickly you can gather information. A straightforward estate might take three to six months from instruction to HMRC clearance. More complex cases involving property sales, business valuations or disputes can take twelve months or longer. We'll give you a realistic timeline once we understand your situation. What information do I need to provide? We'll need details of all the deceased's assets and liabilities at the date of death: bank statements, property valuations, investment portfolios, pensions, debts and any gifts made in the seven years before death. We'll give you a full checklist at the start and help you track down anything that's missing. Can you help if I'm based outside Cardiff? Absolutely. While most of our executor clients are in Cardiff and South Wales, we can assist executors anywhere if the estate has a local connection or you'd prefer to work with us remotely. Everything can be handled by video call, email and post if needed. What if beneficiaries disagree or there's a dispute? Our service covers the accounting and tax work, not legal disputes. If disagreements arise, we'll work closely with your probate solicitor to provide the financial information they need, but you'll need legal advice to resolve the dispute itself. We'll flag any potential issues early so you're not caught off guard. Are you licensed to do probate work? Yes. We're ACCA Chartered Certified Accountants and hold the necessary licences and professional indemnity insurance to provide executor accounting and probate administration services. What happens after HMRC gives clearance? Once HMRC confirms there's no further tax to pay, we prepare final distribution accounts showing what each beneficiary is due. You can then distribute the estate and close the administration. If any ongoing tax obligations remain, such as trust returns, we'll advise you on next steps. ## Let's talk about your executor duties Book a free consultation and we'll explain the process, answer your questions, and give you a clear fixed-fee quote with no obligation to proceed. [Book a free consultation](https://calendly.com/hlsaccounting/new-client-meeting)