How Much Does a Will Cost?

Two reasons. First, attorney rates differ widely — the same basic will costs far more in some markets than others. Second, witness and notarization requirements differ. Most states require two witnesses, a few accept handwritten (holographic) wills with no witnesses, and some now recognize remote online notarization. The calculator pulls state-specific attorney rates from the Clio Legal Trends Report. To estimate what your heirs pay later at probate, see our probate cost calculator.

For smaller estates, a will may be more affordable upfront. For estates over $100,000, a trust often saves money overall by avoiding probate. Use our Trust vs. Will comparison to see which is right for your situation, or compare trust costs with our Trust Cost Calculator.

At the low end, free templates and SimplyTrust's form give you a state-compliant document with execution instructions but no review. Online legal services typically include some guidance, witness and notarization help, and a year of amendments. Attorney-drafted wills include personalized review, complex provisions like special needs trusts or conditional gifts, and direct guidance — but you typically pay again for amendments. The calculator shows actual pricing for each provider type.

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. Use our Do I Need a Trust? tool to see if a trust makes sense for your situation, or build a revocable trust online through SimplyTrust.

Yes. A will is valid when it is executed according to your state's rules — signed by the testator in the presence of witnesses (usually two adults). Some states also recognize handwritten (holographic) wills without witnesses. Our free Last Will and Testament form generates a state-compliant will — no attorney required. This calculator compares the upfront cost of using the free form versus paid online services and attorneys.