How Much Does a Will Cost in Illinois?

Probate on a $500,000 estate in Illinois costs about $28,870 — roughly 6% of estate value — including attorney fees, executor fees, court filing fees, and publication costs.755 ILCS 5/6-4, 5/9-4 (appointment), 5/12-2, 5/12-4 (bond), 5/14-1, 5/14-2 (inventory/appraisal), 5/18-3 (creditor notice), 5/25-1 (small estate), 5/27-1, 5/27-2 (fees), 5/28-1, 5/28-2 (independent admin)Verified Jul 14, 2026 These costs are paid by the estate before assets transfer to beneficiaries, reducing the total inheritance. Estimate the full cost with the Illinois probate calculator.

A will does not avoid probate in Illinois — probate is the court-supervised process that validates the will, pays debts, and distributes assets. Estates under $150,000 may qualify for a simplified small-estate procedure instead of full probate. A revocable living trust transfers assets to beneficiaries without probate at any estate size.

Online will services cost $30-$300 upfront compared to $1,002-$2,004 for an attorney in Illinois. Either way, the will goes through the same probate process. Total cost depends on subscription fees, amendment charges, and the eventual probate expenses heirs will pay.

Life events like marriage, divorce, or having a child require updating your will. Some online providers require purchasing a new document. Attorney amendments in Illinois cost $368 to $736 for minor changes and $1,472 to $2,944 for major restructuring.

Illinois has specific requirements for executing a valid will, including witness and notary rules. A will that does not meet these requirements may not be accepted during probate. See the full requirements with the Illinois signing requirements tool.