How Much Does Probate Cost in Pennsylvania?

Whether you are managing a loved one’s estate or planning ahead for the future, you may wonder how much probate costs in Pennsylvania. The costs vary depending on many factors, including the complexity of the estate. However, probate does not have to be expensive or overwhelming. This is particularly true if you are prepared and work with an estate planning attorney. Below, our experienced attorney outlines the costs involved.

Filing Fees

The probate process starts when the personal representative of the estate files the will with the appropriate court. This is also when the filing fees are paid. The filing fees in the state range between $150 and $500, depending on the size and complexity of the estate and the number of short certificates required. These certificates are issued by the Register of Wills and establish that the personal representative has the legal authority to manage someone’s estate after they pass away.

Personal Representative Fee

Personal representatives are responsible for many tasks, including notifying creditors and beneficiaries, paying debts, inventorying assets, distribution property to heirs, and more. For completing these tasks, personal representatives are also given a fee. The fee must be reasonable but is usually two to five percent of the total value of the estate. The fee must also be disclosed in the final accounting.

Attorney Fees

Attorneys may charge an hourly rate or a flat fee, depending on the nature of a specific estate and the complexity of it. It is important to ask any attorney you speak with about their fee structure and how much they charge.

Publication Fees

Personal representatives must notify creditors of the passing so that if the decedent owed debt, creditors can file a claim with the estate. The notice must be published in a local newspaper. The costs for these publications range between $150 and $300.

Appraisal Costs 

When a decedent’s estate includes certain types of property such as business interests, real estate, jewelry and art collections, and more, these assets may have to be appraised. The cost of this will depend on the type of asset and the specific appraiser’s fee structure.

Inheritance Taxes 

Pennsylvania does impose inheritance taxes that range between zero to 15 percent. The tax amount depends on the beneficiary’s relationship to the deceased. Like all other probate costs, the inheritance tax is taken directly from the estate. Beneficiaries will receive the share of property left for them after all fees, including the inheritance tax, have been paid by the estate.

Our Estate Planning Attorney Can Help 

Although there are always some costs associated with probate, there are ways to minimize them. At The Law Office of Kim M. Gillen, P.C., our Lehighton estate planning attorney can advise on what these are and help your loved ones avoid it altogether, or ensure it is as easy as possible for you to navigate. Call us now at 484-613-0011 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.

Source:

palegalads.org/legal-ads/carbon-county