Probate Fees

Unless your estate is extremely simple, your executor will likely have to probate your will. This means they must seek court certification that it is valid. Probate is the Court document that proves the will is the actual last will of the deceased, and confirms the appointment of the executor. This process can be costly and delay your heirs’ access to your legacy.

Owning assets jointly mean they will not have to pass through your will. Transferring your assets to a living trust can also avoid probate.

Your lawyer can provide guidance in the most effective means of minimizing probate fees.

Probate fees are 0.7% of the estate inventory. The minimum charge by the court is $70.

Court probate fees are calculated as follows:

1. 1. where the value of the estate is $10,000 or less, $70
   2. where the value of the estate is more than $10,000, $70 plus $7 for every additional $1,000 or fraction thereof.