Estate Planning
Estimate the cost of probate.
Enter the value of assets expected to go through probate. See a planning range, a typical cost breakdown, and a rough timeline.
Estate details
Planning method: the middle estimate uses 3% for attorney costs, 2.5% for executor compensation, and 0.5% for court and administrative costs. Actual rules and fees vary widely by state and by case.
Enter the probate estate value to see a cost estimate and timeline.
Middle estimate
$0
Estimated total probate cost
Explain these results
What the total means
The middle estimate combines a rough attorney cost, executor compensation, and court or administrative costs. It is a planning figure—not a quote. In some states, attorney or executor compensation follows a fee schedule; in others, reasonable hourly fees are more common.
Why there is a range
Even an ordinary probate can cost more or less depending on local filing fees, the number and type of assets, required notices, appraisals, creditor claims, and whether anyone contests the will.
What is not included
This estimate does not include debts owed by the estate, taxes, real estate commissions, repairs, property carrying costs, or losses caused by a delayed sale. Those items reduce what beneficiaries may receive but are not all probate fees.
What may avoid probate
Assets with a valid beneficiary designation, many jointly owned assets, and assets already held in a properly funded trust may pass outside probate. State law controls, so review the estate with a licensed attorney in the state where the person lived.
For informational and educational purposes only. This estimate is not legal, tax, or financial advice and is not a quote. Probate rules, fee schedules, simplified-estate limits, executor compensation, and timelines vary by state and by case. Consult a licensed probate attorney for advice about a specific estate.