Probate Calculator
When you use our calculator, you'll see a spot that says "property subject to probate administration." This means all the items that would be distributed using the probate process if there wasn't a estate plan in place.
Here's how to figure out that number:
1. List Everything
Think about everything the person owned - their house, money in the bank, cars, jewelry, and other stuff.
2. Leave Out Some Items
Some things don’t need to go through probate. This includes assets held in a trust, money from life insurance, retirement accounts with a named beneficiary, and some property owned with someone else, such as joint tenancy property, as long as at least one owner is still living. Do not deduct debt. The court does not allow you to subtract mortgages, credit cards, or other debts.
3. Add Up the Rest
Add up everything that is left. That total is what you enter in the calculator to estimate how much probate might cost.
What is Probate in California?
Probate is the process that happens after someone passes away to distribute their belongings. In California, this process can take a long time (generally takes over a year), is open for everyone to see, and costs a lot of money.
The more things that have to go through probate, the more it costs. Planning ahead can save money and make sure more goes to the people you care about.
Disclaimer: This probate fee calculator is provided for general information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Why You Should Avoid Probate in California
Probate in California can be time-consuming and expensive—and often comes at a time when families are already dealing with loss and uncertainty.
The process involves court supervision, legal filings, and fees for both the attorney and the executor (also called the personal representative or administrator), all based on the gross value of the estate.
Under California Probate Code §10800 & §10810, both the probate attorney and the executor are entitled to the same statutory fee structure:
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4% of the first $100,000
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3% of the next $100,000
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2% of the next $800,000
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1% of the next $9 million
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0.5% of the next $15 million
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For estates over $25 million, the court sets a reasonable fee.
These percentages may look small — but when applied to your total estate value, the costs can add up fast.
In addition to the financial burden, it’s important to note that probate is a public process. This means that the details of your estate — including what you owned, what it was worth, and who it goes to — become part of the public record.
For many families, this lack of privacy can create additional stress during an already difficult time.
Example: Estate Valued at $500,000
Let’s break down the calculation using the same statutory formula:
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4% of the first $100,000 → $4,000
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3% of the next $100,000 → $3,000
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2% of the next $300,000 → $6,000
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That’s a total of $13,000 in statutory fees — but since both the attorney and the executor are entitled to the same amount, the total cost becomes $26,000.
That’s $26,000 of the estate that could have gone to loved ones — instead of being lost to the court process.
How JLC Legacy Law Helps Families Plan Ahead
At JLC Legacy Law, we believe estate planning isn’t just about documents — it’s about protecting your loved ones, reducing stress, and preserving your family’s legacy.
Our experienced California estate planning team help families:
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Create living trusts to avoid probate and keep matters private.
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Ensure your home, savings, and investments transfer smoothly to your heirs.
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Reduce legal fees and delays by preparing a solid estate plan (which usually includes powers of attorney and advance health care directives).
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Provide clarity to your family with a plan that reflects your values and wishes.
We make the process simple and accessible, offering in-person and virtual consultations across California.
Use Our California Probate Fee Calculator
Use the JLC Probate Calculator above to estimate potential probate costs based on your estate’s value.
It’s a great way to see how much your family could save with a comprehensive estate plan.
Keep in mind: the calculator provides a general estimate only. Every family’s situation is unique, and additional factors can affect the total cost.
For a personalized review, speak directly with one of our attorneys — we’ll help you understand your options and design a plan that fits your goals.
Schedule a Consultation
We’re here to help you make informed, confident decisions about your legacy.
Schedule a Free Consultation today to discuss your estate plan or probate matter with our team.
📞 Call us at 714-844-6669
📍 Serving clients across Orange County, Los Angeles County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, San Diego County, and throughout California.