| Option | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Simple / straightforward | $2–$2 |
| Standard complexity | $2–$4 |
| Complex / contested | $3–$5 |
| High-stakes litigation | $5+ |
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| State Approach | Typical Fee |
|---|---|
| Reasonable compensation (most states) | 2–5% of estate value |
| Statutory percentage (CA, NY, FL) | 1.5–5% on sliding scale |
| Hourly rate (alternative) | $30–$80/hour |
| Professional executor (bank/trust co) | 1–3% + minimum fees |
| Family member (can waive fee) | $0 (often waived) |
In states with statutory fees (California, New York, Florida), executor compensation is set by law on a sliding scale: typically 4% on the first $100K, 3% on the next $100K, 2% on the next $800K. On a $500,000 estate, that is $13,000. Family executors frequently waive the fee since the estate often goes to them anyway, and executor fees are taxable income. Professional executors (banks, trust companies) charge 1–3% annually with $3,000–$5,000 minimum fees. Name a successor executor in your will in case your first choice cannot serve.
Executor Fees costs are driven primarily by complexity and whether the matter is contested. Simple, uncontested matters with clear documentation can often be handled at flat-fee rates. Once disputes arise, costs shift to hourly billing and become much harder to predict.
Geography matters more than most people realize. Attorney rates in New York or San Francisco can be 2–3 times higher than in smaller markets for the same type of work. If your matter does not require a local attorney, hiring outside a major metro can save substantially without sacrificing quality.