How Much Does an Executor Get Paid in Massachusetts?
Calculate how much an executor (personal representative) can charge for administering an estate. Fees vary by state law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Massachusetts allows executors to receive "reasonable compensation" as determined by the court.M.G.L. c. 190B § 3-719 (reasonable compensation; no statutory percentage)Verified Jun 19, 2026 Courts consider the size and complexity of the estate, the time spent, and the executor's skill and experience. Typical fees range from 2% to 4% of estate value.
Yes. Executors in Massachusetts can waive their fee entirely or accept a reduced amount. Family members serving as executor often waive compensation, particularly when they are also beneficiaries of the estate. Waiving the fee reduces the overall cost of probate and increases the amount available for distribution to beneficiaries.
Massachusetts requires executors to post a surety bond.M.G.L. c. 190B § 3-603Verified Jun 19, 2026 The bond requirement can be waived in the will or by court order. The typical annual bond premium is approximately 0.5% of the estate value. The bond protects beneficiaries against executor misconduct or mismanagement.
An executor in Massachusetts is responsible for filing the will with the probate court, inventorying assets, notifying creditors, paying debts and taxes, and distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries.M.G.L. c. 190B §§ 3-301, 3-306, 3-603, 3-706, 3-715, 3-719, 3-720, 3-803, 3-1201; M.G.L. c. 262 § 40 (verified on malegislature.gov, May 2026); Mass. estate tax per Ch. 50 of the Acts of 2023 (mass.gov)Verified Jun 19, 2026 The process typically takes 6-9 months for simple estates and 9-14 months on average. The 12-month creditor claim period sets a minimum timeline. The Massachusetts executor checklist outlines each step.
Executor fees and attorney fees are separate costs in Massachusetts probate. Attorney fees are based on reasonable compensation.No specific statute for general probate attorney fees; reasonable compensation subject to court review. M.G.L. c. 190B § 3-720 covers litigation expense reimbursement only.Verified Jun 19, 2026 Executor compensation is calculated separately from attorney fees. Both fees are paid from the estate before distribution to beneficiaries.
Total probate costs in Massachusetts include executor fees, attorney fees, court filing fees, publication costs, and potentially bond premiums. Executor compensation is one component of the overall expense. The total typically ranges from 3-8% of the estate value depending on complexity. Use the Massachusetts probate calculator for a complete cost estimate.
Your kids shouldn't have to do this.
Massachusetts Estate Planning Resources
In-depth guides covering Massachusetts probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
