How to Use the Probate Fees Calculator

Step 1: Enter the Total Estate Value

Begin by inputting the total value of the estate in dollars. This should include all assets that are subject to probate, such as real estate, bank accounts, investments, and personal property. Be as accurate as possible, as the estate value significantly impacts the fee calculations.

Step 2: Select the State

Choose the appropriate state from the dropdown menu. The calculator currently supports California, New York, and Florida. Each state has different fee structures and regulations, so selecting the correct state is crucial for accurate results.

Step 3: Choose the Case Complexity

Assess the complexity of the estate and select the appropriate option: Simple, Moderate, or Complex. A simple case might involve a straightforward estate with few assets, while a complex case could include multiple properties, businesses, or contested elements. This selection helps adjust the attorney fees to reflect the expected workload.

Step 4: Click “Calculate Fees”

After entering all the required information, click the “Calculate Fees” button. The calculator will process your inputs and display the results.

Step 5: Review the Results

The calculator will provide a breakdown of estimated fees, including:

• Attorney Fee: The estimated cost for legal services during the probate process.
• Executor Fee: The compensation for the person managing the estate.
• Court Fees: The estimated costs for filing and court proceedings.
• Total Estimated Fees: The sum of all the above fees.

Step 6: Consider the Note

Remember that the results are estimates based on typical fee structures. Actual costs may vary depending on specific circumstances and local regulations. Use this information as a starting point for planning and discussions with legal professionals.

By following these steps, you can quickly get an estimate of the probate fees associated with settling an estate. This information can be valuable for estate planning, budgeting for probate expenses, or understanding the potential costs involved in being an executor or beneficiary of an estate.