Estate Probate Cost Estimator
Example: Gross estate value: 500000 $ · Attorney fee (% of estate): 3 % · Executor fee (% of estate): 2 % · Court + filing costs: 1500 $
| Total probate cost | $26,500 |
| Attorney fees | $15,000 |
| Executor fees | $10,000 |
| Net reaching heirs | $473,500 |
Worked example
Consider a $500,000 estate. At a 3% attorney fee that is $15,000, plus a 2% executor commission of $10,000, plus $1,500 in court and filing costs — about $26,500 in total probate cost, or roughly 5.3% of the estate. That leaves about $473,500 for the heirs. Because these fees are a percentage of value, larger estates lose more absolute dollars, which is why avoiding probate through a living trust is a common planning move.
Frequently asked questions
How much does probate typically cost?
It varies by state and complexity, but total probate costs commonly land in the range of 3 to 7% of the estate's value once attorney fees, executor commissions, and court costs are added. Some states set statutory fee schedules; others leave fees to reasonable-and-customary standards.
Can probate be avoided?
Often yes. Assets held in a living trust, accounts with named beneficiaries, and jointly owned property with survivorship generally pass outside probate. That is why estate planners weigh the one-time cost of a trust against the recurring probate exposure this tool estimates.
Who pays these fees?
Probate costs are paid out of the estate itself before assets are distributed, which is why they reduce what heirs receive. The net-to-heirs figure here is the practical bottom line for a family.
Does a small estate still go through probate?
Many states offer a simplified or small-estate process below a dollar threshold, which is faster and much cheaper than full probate. If the estate is modest, check whether it qualifies before assuming full costs.