How much can an executor charge in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island allows executors to receive "reasonable compensation" as determined by the court (R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-14-8 (reasonable compensation as court considers just)). 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.

How do executor fees compare to attorney fees in Rhode Island?

Executor fees and attorney fees are separate costs in Rhode Island probate. Attorney fees are based on reasonable compensation (R.I. Gen. Laws (no statutory schedule; court discretion applies)). Executor compensation is calculated separately from attorney fees. Both fees are paid from the estate before distribution to beneficiaries.

How Much Does an Executor Get Paid in Rhode Island?

Calculate how much an executor (personal representative) can charge for administering an estate. Fees vary by state law.

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Estate Value

Total value of estate assets before debts. Executor fees are calculated on gross value.

Calculate executor compensation

Select your state and enter the estate value to see what an executor can charge.

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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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rhode Island allows executors to receive "reasonable compensation" as determined by the court. 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 Rhode Island 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.

Rhode Island requires executors to post a surety bond. 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 Rhode Island is responsible for filing the will with the probate court, inventorying assets, notifying creditors, paying debts and taxes, and distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries. The process typically takes 6-12 months for simple estates and 12-18 months on average. The 6-month creditor claim period sets a minimum timeline. The Rhode Island estate settlement plan outlines each step.

Executor fees and attorney fees are separate costs in Rhode Island probate. Attorney fees are based on reasonable compensation. Executor compensation is calculated separately from attorney fees. Both fees are paid from the estate before distribution to beneficiaries. To estimate the attorney fee, use the Rhode Island probate attorney fee calculator.

Total probate costs in Rhode Island include executor fees, attorney fees, court filing fees, publication costs, and potentially bond premiums. Executor compensation is one component of the overall expense. On a $500,000 estate, the total runs about $32,577 — roughly 7% of estate value — depending on complexity. Use the Rhode Island probate calculator for a complete cost estimate.

Executor Fees in Rhode Island

Rhode Island uses a "reasonable compensation" standard for executor fees, typically 2% to 4% of the estate value. Courts consider estate complexity, time spent, and the executor's responsibilities when evaluating fees. The probate calculator provides a complete cost estimate.

In addition to executor fees, Rhode Island may require a surety bond (Yes). Bond premiums run approximately 0.5% of the estate value per year. The requirement is waivable (Yes), which reduces overall costs.

Attorney fees are a separate probate cost in Rhode Island. The attorney fee type is reasonable compensation. Together, executor and attorney fees account for the largest share of probate expenses. The Rhode Island estate settlement plan details each responsibility and the typical timeline.

The probate timeline in Rhode Island starts at 6 months for straightforward estates and can extend to 12 months or longer with complications. Executor fees are typically disbursed at final distribution.