Calculate Probate Costswith Confidence
Get accurate probate fee estimates for all 50 states. Attorney-verified data based on statutory rates and reasonable compensation standards.
Probate Fee Calculator
Enter your estate value and state to get an instant estimate of probate costs.
Probate Cost Estimator
Instant estimate of legal fees, commissions, and court costs.
How Much Does Probate Cost?
Probate typically costs 3-7% of the gross estate value - roughly $15,000-$35,000 on a $500,000 estate - covering attorney fees, executor commission, court filing fees, and ancillary costs like bonds, appraisals, and notices. When attorney and executor compensation are both taken in full, most US states in our fee models land between $31,500 and $36,700 for a $500,000 estate. Smaller estates often qualify for simplified procedures that cost far less, so checking your own state first can save thousands.
| Estate Value | Typical Total Cost (Most US States) |
|---|---|
| $100,000 | $7,200 - $8,500 |
| $250,000 | $16,300 - $19,000 |
| $500,000 | $31,500 - $36,700 |
| $1,000,000 | $62,000 - $72,100 |
Middle 50% of US states in our fee models, using the same statutory and reasonable-compensation logic as the calculator above, with attorney and executor fees both taken in full. Many families pay less - executors who are family members often waive their fee, and small estates can skip full probate entirely. General information, not legal advice.
How Probate Costs Are Calculated
Understanding the three main components of probate expenses
Attorney Fees
Statutory states (California, Florida, Wyoming) set fees by law—typically 2-4% on a sliding scale.Reasonable states allow court-approved fees based on complexity and time spent.
Executor Fees
Personal representative compensation varies by state. Many states match attorney fee schedules.Examples: Missouri 5% on first $5K, 2% on amounts over $1M; Oregon 7% on first $1K.
Court & Other Costs
Filing fees vary: $45 in Ohio to $435+ in California. Add publication costs ($100-300), bonds (0.5-1% of estate), appraisals, and certified copies.Total: $500-$2,500+ typical.
State-Specific Probate Calculators
Get accurate estimates based on your state's specific probate laws and fee schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does probate cost on average?
Probate typically costs 3-7% of the estate's gross value. For a $500,000 estate, expect $15,000-$35,000 in total costs including attorney fees, executor fees, and court costs.
Can I avoid probate costs?
Yes. Living trusts, joint ownership, beneficiary designations, and small estate procedures can help avoid or reduce probate costs. Each state has different thresholds for simplified probate.
How long does probate take?
Simple estates typically take 6-12 months. Complex or contested estates can take 2+ years. Timeline varies significantly by state and estate complexity.
Are probate attorney fees negotiable?
In most states, yes. However, California, Florida, and a few other states have statutory fee schedules that set maximum reasonable fees. Always get fee agreements in writing.
What is included in probate estate value?
Probate estate includes assets solely in the deceased's name: real estate, bank accounts, investments, vehicles. It excludes joint accounts, beneficiary-designated assets (life insurance, retirement), and trust assets.
Trusted by Families Nationwide
Real experiences from people who used our calculator to plan for probate
"The calculator helped me budget for my father's California probate. The estimate was within $2,000 of actual costs—the 4% statutory rate on the first $100K was spot-on. Saved me from sticker shock when the attorney sent the fee agreement."
"Texas uses 'reasonable compensation' so I wasn't sure what to expect. The calculator gave me a 2-5% range, which helped me interview attorneys and understand their quotes. Estate settled in 6 months with independent administration."
"My mother's estate was $95K—just under Illinois' $100K small estate threshold. The calculator showed the potential savings. We used the small estate affidavit instead of full probate and saved thousands in attorney fees."
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