Probate Cost Calculator

Estimate probate fees, attorney costs, and timeline by estate value and state.
$

Estimated Fees

$22,000.00

Timeline

6-12 months

Probate Costs

Attorney/Executor (4.00%)$20,000.00
Court Filing Fees$2,000.00
Total Estimated$22,000.00

Use the Probate Cost Calculator above to calculate your results. Enter your values and see instant results — all calculations run in your browser.

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.

How It Works

Our Probate Cost Calculator provides a preliminary estimate of probate fees, attorney costs, and the likely timeline for settling an estate. Understanding these expenses upfront, especially with potential 2026 tax law changes, helps beneficiaries and executors plan financially during a challenging time. This tool aims to demystify the often opaque process of estate administration.

The calculator uses a tiered percentage-based fee structure for attorney costs, typically ranging from 2-5% of the gross estate value, varying by state and complexity. Court filing fees are factored in based on average state-specific rates (e.g., California probate filing fees can start around $435 for estates over $250,000, while New York may be $215 for estates over $250,000, as of 2026 projections). Timelines are estimated based on typical state probate court processing times, which can range from 6 months to 2 years.

A common mistake is underestimating the value of non-probate assets, which don't go through probate but can still incur estate taxes or administrative costs. Another tip is to consider alternatives like revocable living trusts to bypass probate entirely, potentially saving significant time and money. Always consult with a qualified estate planning attorney for personalized advice.

Example: California Estate with $750,000 Gross Value

  1. 1 Input: State: California, Gross Estate Value: $750,000
  2. 2 Calculation: Attorney fees (estimated 3%): $22,500. Court filing fees (estimated): $435. Publication/Miscellaneous fees (estimated): $500. Total estimated probate costs: $23,435.
  3. 3 Result: Estimated Total Probate Costs: $23,435. Estimated Probate Timeline: 12-18 months.
  4. 4 Context: This estimate does not include potential estate taxes, appraisal fees, or executor compensation. The actual timeline can vary based on court caseload, estate complexity, and any disputes among beneficiaries.

Source: U.S. Courts (uscourts.gov) · Last updated: April 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does probate cost?
Probate costs typically run 3-7% of the estate value. A $500,000 estate might incur $15,000-35,000 in attorney fees, executor fees, court costs, appraisal fees, and accounting fees. Some states like California set statutory attorney and executor fees.
How long does probate take?
Simple estates take 6-12 months. Estates with complications like contested wills, tax issues, or real estate in multiple states can take 1-3 years. Most states require a minimum waiting period for creditor claims, typically 4-6 months.
How can I avoid probate?
Common strategies include creating a revocable living trust, naming beneficiaries on financial accounts and insurance, using joint tenancy with right of survivorship, payable-on-death designations, and transfer-on-death deeds for real estate where available.

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