Estimated Probate Costs
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How Probate Costs Are Calculated
Court filing fees are set by the state and county. Most states charge a flat fee ($150–$625); a few use a sliding scale based on estate value.
Attorney fees vary widely. California sets statutory fees by law (a percentage of the gross estate). Florida publishes a presumed-reasonable schedule, but attorney fees there are negotiable. Most other states charge hourly rates ($200–$400/hr) or negotiated flat fees. A typical probate takes 20–80 attorney hours.
Executor compensation is set by state law or the will. Most states allow a "reasonable fee" (2–5% of estate value) or set statutory percentages.
Other costs include appraiser fees, newspaper publication costs, bond premiums (if required), accountant fees, and court hearing costs. These typically add $500–$3,000 to the total.