Choosing the right fee structure is crucial when instructing a professional genealogist to trace missing heirs or conduct genealogical research. Clients—whether Personal Representatives (PRs), legal professionals, or Estate Administrators—must weigh the cost implications, transparency, and fairness of different pricing models. This article explores the three main fee structures in genealogical research—contingency, time and expense, and fixed fees—highlighting their advantages and drawbacks.
Contingency fees: A risk vs. reward approach
A contingency fee arrangement means the genealogist undertakes research at no upfront cost and is paid a percentage of the beneficiary’s inheritance once located. While this model minimizes financial risk for estate administrators, it can lead to disproportionately high fees, particularly in large estates. Heir hunters are more commonly known to use this pricing pricing model.
Key considerations:
- High percentage charges: Industry estimates suggest an heir hunter typically charges around 20% of an individual’s inheritance. For example, a beneficiary expecting £80,000 may see £16,000 deducted as a research fee;
- Lack of transparency: If the PR agrees to a contingency fee without consulting known beneficiaries, disputes may arise later when heirs realise how much has been deducted;
- Unnecessary costs for straightforward cases: Advances in genealogical research mean most missing heirs can be traced efficiently, making high contingency fees disproportionate in many cases.
Alternative perspective
Fixed fees or time and expense pricing provide a fairer and more transparent approach, ensuring costs reflect the actual work undertaken rather than the estate’s value.
Time & Expense fees: Flexible but uncertain
A time and expense model charges based on the number of hours worked and any incurred expenses. This method is widely used in the legal sector and provides a direct link between cost and effort. However, it can lead to uncertainty about final expenses.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Cost reflects effort - If the research is straightforward, costs remain low. Adjustable budgets - PRs can set a budget and monitor spending.
Cons: Unpredictability - Without a clear estimate, final costs can escalate.
Experienced genealogists mitigate this uncertainty by providing realistic budgets before starting work and updating clients on progress. If costs exceed the initial estimate, clients can decide whether to proceed with additional spending.
Fixed Fees: The transparent solution
Fixed fees offer a clear, upfront price for genealogical research. This ensures that Estate Administrators and beneficiaries know exactly what to expect, avoiding unexpected costs and disputes.
Benefits of Fixed Fees:
- Complete cost transparency: No hidden fees, even if the work takes longer than expected;
- Preserves estate value: Ensures more money remains in the estate for beneficiaries.;
- Predictable budgeting: Fixed pricing provides peace of mind for PRs.
Why Title Research advocates for Fixed Fees or Time & Expense
At Title Research, we believe pricing should be based on the work required, not on the estate’s value. That’s why we do not offer contingency fees. Instead, we offer:
- Fixed fees for transparency and predictability;
- Time & expense pricing with a set budget for flexibility and control.
For example, we trace missing beneficiaries in the UK for a fixed fee of £399 plus VAT and disbursements—regardless of the estate’s size or the beneficiary’s entitlement.
Making an informed decision
Choosing the right fee model depends on the complexity of the case, budget considerations, and the level of transparency required. While contingency fees may seem attractive due to their ‘no win, no fee’ appeal, they often result in excessive charges. Fixed fees and well-managed time and expense models offer a fairer, more transparent approach.
The only downside is that if the work requires less effort than anticipated, the client still pays the agreed fee. However, reputable genealogists set competitive prices that accurately reflect the work involved.
If you’re interested in finding out more about Title Research’s genealogical research services, call our client services team on 0345 87 27 600 or email info@titleresearch.com.
Topics: Contingency Fees, Ethical approach, Transparency, Time and Expense
