What PA Probate Actually Costs
By Sean Quinlan, Esq. · Updated January 15, 2025
Pennsylvania probate cost depends on county, estate size, and complexity. Most estates land in a $4,000–$15,000 range for total fees.
Filing fees
Register of Wills filing scales by estate value — typically $200–$2,000. Each county sets its own schedule.
Attorney fees
Either hourly or a percentage of probate assets. Common range: 2.5–4% for routine estates, scaled by complexity.
Executor commissions
Pennsylvania allows 'reasonable compensation' — commonly 3–5% of probate assets. Often waived for family executors.
Inheritance tax
Separate from probate costs and not negotiable. See PA inheritance tax.
This article is general information about Pennsylvania law as of the update date above. It is not legal advice for your situation and does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice on your specific facts, please schedule a consultation.
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