How Much Does a Will Cost?
Compare will costs across providers. See document costs plus probate fees your heirs will pay.
Attorney costs vary by state
Wills are cheaper but go through probate
Used to calculate probate costs when your estate is distributed
Couples plans cost more upfront on some platforms
Select events that might happen. These affect costs on some platforms.
Select Your State
Choose your state to see 5-year cost comparisons across estate planning providers.
Cost estimates based on published pricing. Actual costs may vary.Pricing verified January 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Will costs range from under $100 for basic online services to several hundred dollars for attorney-drafted documents. However, the true cost includes probate fees your heirs will pay, which typically add 3-8% of your estate value.
Probate costs include attorney fees, executor fees, court filing fees, bond premiums, publication costs, and potentially appraiser fees. These typically total 3-8% of your estate value and are paid before your heirs receive their inheritance.
For smaller estates, a will may be more affordable upfront. For estates over $100,000, a trust often saves money overall by avoiding probate. This calculator shows both options so you can compare.
Document costs vary by provider type (online vs attorney) and complexity. Probate costs vary by state - some states have statutory fee schedules while others allow reasonable hourly billing.
No. All wills must go through probate court to be validated and executed. Only a living trust can avoid probate. However, some states have simplified probate for smaller estates.
More Estate Planning Resources
Explore related tools and documents to complete your estate plan.
Last Will and Testament
Create a free, state-specific will with witness and notarization requirements included.
Probate Cost Calculator
Estimate attorney fees, executor fees, court costs, and timeline for probating an estate in your state. See if the estate qualifies for simplified probate procedures.
Executor Fee Calculator
Calculate how much an executor (personal representative) can charge for administering an estate. See if your state has statutory fees or uses reasonable compensation.
Estate Planning Cost Calculator
See the true cost of estate planning. Compare SimplyTrust, Trust & Will, LegalZoom, and attorneys including life events like marriage, divorce, and having children.
Executor Duties Checklist
Complete guide for executors and personal representatives navigating probate. Court filings, creditor claims, and distribution timelines.
Estate Settlement Checklist
Get a personalized checklist for settling an estate after someone passes away. Covers trust administration, probate, and intestate estates.
