South Dakota Probate Calculator
Estimate probate fees, executor compensation, and court costs in this state instantly. Updated for 2025 based on local South Dakota probate statutes.
Cost Estimator
South Dakota Probate Fees (USD)
Probate Cost Estimator
Instant estimate of legal fees, commissions, and court costs.
How Probate Works in South Dakota
South Dakota is a UPC state with a statutory fee schedule for executors. It is considered an efficient state for probate administration.
Legal Fee Guidelines
Attorney fees are not statutory but must be reasonable. They often mirror the executor fee schedule.
Executor Compensation
S.D. Codified Laws 30-25-7 sets the rate: 5% on first $1K, 4% on next $4K, 2.5% on everything over $5K.
Small Estate Shortcut
In South Dakota, estates valued under USD 50,000 may qualify for simplified probate procedures, saving months of time and thousands in fees.
Check Eligibility NowTypical South Dakota Probate Timeline
Most estates in South Dakota follow this 6-stage process, taking an average of 6-12 months.
Petition
File petition with the South Dakota probate court to open the estate.
Notice
Notify creditors and heirs of the probate proceedings.
Inventory
Appraise and inventory all estate assets.
Debts & Taxes
Pay valid creditor claims and final tax liabilities.
Distribution
Distribute remaining assets to legal beneficiaries.
Closing
File final accounting and close the estate.
Ways to Reduce Probate Costs in South Dakota
Statutory Reference: S.D. Codified Laws § 30-25-7
Frequently Asked Questions
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Probate Insights & Guides
Essential reading for executors and beneficiaries in South Dakota.
South Dakota Probate Guide: Fees, Timelines, and Efficiency (2025)
South Dakota is one of the most efficient states for probate. Learn about SD statutory executor fees and informal administration procedures in 2025.
Read GuideWhat is Probate? A Complete Beginner's Guide (2025)
Probate is the legal process of settling a deceased person's estate. Learn when probate is required, how long it takes, typical costs, and alternatives to avoid probate entirely in 2025.
Read Guide5 Ways to Reduce Probate Costs (That Actually Work)
Probate can eat up 3-7% of an estate's value. Learn five proven strategies to minimize fees and protect your family's inheritance.
Read GuideMaximize Your Probate Savings
Use our specialized tools to navigate the South Dakota probate process with confidence.
Small Estate Checker
Determine if you can skip full probate using a simplified affidavit.
Launch ToolAsset Categorizer
Identify which assets are subject to probate and which are exempt.
Launch ToolAlternative Finder
Compare traditional probate costs against faster, cheaper legal alternatives.
Launch ToolNeed Expert Help with South Dakota Probate?
Don't navigate the complex South Dakota legal system alone. Connect with a professional probate specialist today for a consultation or explore our probate avoidance guides.
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