Probate is the legal process of settling a person’s estate after they pass away. While it ensures that property is distributed correctly, many families are surprised to learn about the costs involved. Understanding how probate fees are calculated can help you prepare and avoid surprises along the way.

What Are Probate Fees?

Probate fees are the costs associated with administering an estate. These can include:

• Court filing fees – Paid to the court to open and process the probate case.
• Executor or administrator fees – Compensation for the person handling the estate.
• Attorney fees – If an attorney is hired to guide the process.
• Appraisal fees – For valuing property, real estate, or personal belongings.
• Other costs – Such as bond premiums, publication fees, or accounting fees.

How Probate Fees Are Calculated

The calculation depends on state law and the size of the estate. In New York, for example:

• Court filing fees are based on the value of the estate (ranging from $45 to $1,250).
• Executor/administrator commissions are typically a percentage of the estate’s value, often on a sliding scale (larger estates = smaller percentage).
• Attorney fees may be hourly, flat-rate, or based on the estate size.

Simply put, the larger and more complex the estate, the higher the probate fees may be.

Can Probate Fees Be Reduced?

Yes, there are ways to minimize costs:

• Proper estate planning (such as setting up trusts) can help avoid or reduce probate.
• Keeping good records of assets and debts makes the process smoother and faster.
• Working with a probate specialist ensures families avoid unnecessary delays and expenses.

Key Takeaway

Probate fees are an unavoidable part of the estate process in many cases, but understanding how they’re calculated helps families prepare. Whether you’re planning ahead or serving as an executor, getting the right guidance can save time, stress, and money.

💡 Need help navigating probate in New York?

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Disclaimer: We are not attorneys and therefore we are not offering legal advice. 

My team and I can assist you with clean outs, removal of household items, estate sale, winterizing, landscaping, home maintenance and any other non-legal tasks that will help to lighten the load as you go through the probate process. Give us a call at 516-300-2427 or send an email to smbizsol@gmail.com.