Monday, March 21, 2011

What's The Cost Of Probate In Pennsylvania?

Probate is the process of your Executor of your will formally proving that such a will exists, and becoming legally named Executor by the appropriate county Register of Wills office.

Probate is generally considered easier in Pennsylvania, but there are still costs associated with the process. The main two factors for the cost is the size of your estate, and the complexity of the matter. Also, each county in Pennsylvania sets its own probate fees.

Your Executor is entitled to receive reasonable compensation for his or her work. The attorney that your Executor hires is also compensated. In Pennsylvania, there is a ceiling set by the PA Attorney General for compensation. The link for these rates are here (Scroll down).

To give you an idea of the range of costs for the County fees, here are links to the local County fees for probating a will. Generally, probating a will costs between $200 - $1,000 depending on the size of the estate.

Philadelphia Register of Wills fees

Bucks County Register of Wills fees

Montgomery County Register of Wills fees

Delaware County Register of Wills fees

Chester County Register of Wills fees

If we can help you with any probate or estate administration matters, please give our office a call at anytime. (215) 706-0200.