Research Fees

Transparent Pricing for Family Military History Research

No hidden costs. No hourly billing. Clear fixed prices.

At The War Years, we offer a hassle-free family history research solution with a straightforward flat fee structure. Our research packages are designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of your ancestor's military service, ensuring that their stories are preserved for generations to come.

The War Years Research Calculator

🎖️ The War Years Research Calculator

Get an instant estimate for your British military history research

📋Research Package

Comprehensive Military Biography includes:
  • Everything in Basic Package, plus:
  • Personal letters and diary research (where available)
  • Detailed training and career progression
  • Medal and commendation research
  • Photo archive searches
  • 8-10 page illustrated report with timeline

⏱️Timeline & Rush Service

📋Additional Services

💰 Cost Breakdown

Research Package: £0
Rush Service: £0
Additional Services: £0
Total Estimated Cost: £0
Payment Terms: Family research packages require a 50% deposit to start research and 50% balance on completion. Payment accepted by bank transfer or PayPal. Additional services are invoiced after completion with payment due within 30 days. This quote is valid for 30 days and final pricing may vary based on specific research requirements.

Expert Consultation Services

Manuscript Review - £75/hour

For authors writing military history books

  • Historical accuracy checking

  • Source verification and suggestions

  • Military terminology and context review

Minimum 2-hour booking

Media Consultation - £150/day

For documentaries, films, and TV productions

  • Historical accuracy consulting

  • Interview preparation and appearances

  • Research guidance and fact-checking

  • Archive location assistance

Speaking Engagements - £250-500

For historical societies and events

  • WWII military history presentations

  • Research methodology talks

  • Book launch events

  • Travel expenses are additional


What's Included in all packages

Research access:

  • National Archives searches

  • Imperial War Museum records

  • Unit and regimental museums

  • Specialist military collections

  • Photo and document archives

Professional service:

  • Free initial consultation (15 minutes)

  • Regular progress updates

  • Follow-up call to explain findings

  • Digital delivery of all materials

  • Archive visit guidance if needed

Quality guarantee:

  • Academic research standards

  • Source verification and citations

  • Professional report formatting

  • Satisfaction guarantee

What's Excluded

Additional costs (quoted in advance):

  • Archive access fees (typically £5-20 per visit)

  • Document copying charges (usually under £20)

  • Travel expenses for specialist archives

  • Rush delivery (50% surcharge for 2-week delivery)

I'll always get your approval before incurring any additional costs.


Payment Terms

Family research packages:

  • 50% deposit to start research

  • 50% balance on completion

  • Payment by bank transfer or PayPal

Consultation services:

  • Invoiced after completion

  • Payment within 30 days

  • Higher rates may apply for international work

Money-Back Guarantee

If I can't find sufficient records to complete your chosen package, you'll receive a full refund of any payments made.

Most WWII British service records exist, but some were destroyed in bombing raids or fires. I'll tell you within the first week if adequate records are available.


Frequently Asked Questions

  • Book a free consultation. I'll recommend the right package based on what you want to discover and what records will likely exist.

  • Yes, you can upgrade and pay the difference anytime during research.

  • Additional research is available at £75/hour after package delivery.

  • I can arrange instalments for packages over £350. Please ask during the consultation.

  • I specialise in WWII but can research WWI and post-1945 conflicts. Pricing may vary.

Ready to Start?

Complete the online form below. You can also request a free 15-minute consultation:

We'll discuss your research goals, and I'll recommend the best package for your needs. Most projects suit the Comprehensive package (£350), but I'll advise what works for your situation.