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Calculate how much an executor (personal representative) can charge for administering an estate. Fees vary by state law.
New Hampshire allows executors to receive "reasonable compensation" as determined by the court.NH Circuit Court Probate Division Rule 88 (reasonable compensation determined by court; no statutory percentage)Verified May 31, 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 New Hampshire 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.
New Hampshire requires executors to post a surety bond.RSA 553:13Verified May 31, 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 New Hampshire is responsible for filing the will with the probate court, inventorying assets, notifying creditors, paying debts and taxes, and distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries.NH Probate Div. Rule 88 (fees), NH Probate Div. Rule 169 (filing fees; Aug. 27, 2025 amendment added only a card service charge — estate fee tiers unchanged), RSA 553:13 (bond), RSA 553:16 (small estate publication waiver), RSA 553:32 (Waiver of Administration), RSA 553:33 (Summary Administration), RSA 556:1 (creditor 6-mo bar), RSA 556:5 (creditor 1-yr), RSA 556:7 (surviving actions), RSA 556:29 (real property claims)Verified May 31, 2026 The process typically takes 6-9 months for simple estates and 9-15 months on average. The 12-month creditor claim period sets a minimum timeline. The New Hampshire executor checklist outlines each step.
Executor fees and attorney fees are separate costs in New Hampshire probate. Attorney fees are based on reasonable compensation.NH Circuit Court Probate Division Rule 88 (reasonable compensation for work, responsibility, and risk; no statutory percentage)Verified May 31, 2026 Executor compensation is calculated separately from attorney fees. Both fees are paid from the estate before distribution to beneficiaries.
Total probate costs in New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire probate calculator for a complete cost estimate.
In-depth guides covering New Hampshire probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
Total value of estate assets before debts. Executor fees are calculated on gross value.
Select your state and enter the estate value to see what an executor can charge.
Executor fees (also called personal representative compensation) are calculated on gross estate value. This calculator provides educational estimates only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Executors may waive their fee. Family members serving as executor often do so without compensation. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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