Executor Fees By State

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is not intended to be legal advice. Instead it is a guide of where to start when looking for executor fees in particular states. Some states allow executor compensation mentioned in a will to govern, others do not. Many of the laws governing executor compensation are complex and constantly changing, and we may have left out specific exclusions and exceptions. You should consult an estate attorney or the probate court for guidance.

Executor Fees in Alabama

Alabama is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.  

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

The Alabama executor fee has a restriction, though.  Even though executor compensation in Alabama is supposed to be reasonable compensation, Alabama executor fees should not exceed 2.5%.

Executor Fees in Alaska

Alaska is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Arizona

Arizona is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Arkansas

Arkansas is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.  

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

The Arkansas executor fee has a restriction, though.  Even though executor compensation in Arkansas is supposed to be reasonable compensation, Arkansas executor fees, by law should not exceed certain amounts.  Reasonable compensation for executor fees in Arkansas should not to exceed ten percent (10%) of the first $1,000, five percent (5%) of the next $4,000, and three percent (3%) of the rest.

Executor Fees in California

California sets executor compensation by statute.

In states that set specific executor compensation rates by statute, you must use these statutes to calculate executor fees.

So how much should an executor of an estate be paid in California?

Executor fees in California are subject to this formula:

• Four percent (4%) on the first $100,000
• Three percent (3%) on the next $100,000
• Two percent (2%) on the next $800,000
• One percent (1%) on the next $9,000,000
• One-half of one percent (0.5%) on the next $15,000,000
• For all amounts above $25,000,000, remaining executor fees in California are to be a reasonable amount as determined by the court

Executor Fees in Colorado

Colorado does not have a statute governing executor compensation, which you can typically take to mean that Colorado executor fees fit within the reasonable compensation heading.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Connecticut

Connecticut does not have a statute governing executor compensation, but case law seems to suggest that Connecticut executor fees fit within the reasonable compensation heading.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Delaware

Delaware is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Florida

Florida is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Georgia

Executor fees in Georgia are governed by an extensive set of laws, including taking into account executor fees set by a will or other agreement.  With lots of rules governing, the Georgia executor compensation can be boiled down to a general fee of 2.5%.

Executor Fees in Hawaii

Hawaii is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.  

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Idaho

Idaho is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Illinois

Illinois is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Indiana

Indiana is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Iowa

Iowa is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Iowa executor compensation has a restriction, though.  Iowa executor fees, by law, should not exceed certain amounts.  Reasonable fees are not to exceed six percent (6%) for the first $1,000; four percent (4%) for the next $1,000-$5,000; and two percent (2%) for remaining amounts greater than $5,000.

Executor Fees in Kansas

Kansas is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Kentucky

Kentucky law says that executor fees should not exceed five percent (5%).  But how much should you choose as an executor fee in Kentucky without more specific guidelines than that?  You should treat Kentucky executor compensation like states that are reasonable compensation states.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Louisiana

Louisiana law allows for a reasonable amount of executor compensation set out in a will.  If there is nothing listed in the will, then 2.5% is a typical Louisiana executor fee.

Executor Fees in Maine

Maine is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Maryland

Maryland is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

Maryland executor compensation has a restriction, though.  Maryland executor fees, by law, should not exceed certain amounts.  Reasonable compensation is not to exceed 9% if less than $20,000; and $1,800 plus 3.6% of the excess over $20,000.

Executor Fees in Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Michigan

Michigan is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Minnesota

Minnesota is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Mississippi

Mississippi is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Missouri

Missouri sets executor compensation by statute.

In states that set specific executor compensation rates by statute, you must use these statutes to calculate executor fees.

So how much should an executor of an estate be paid in Missouri?

Executor fees in Missouri are subject to this formula:

• First $5,000 is 5%
• Next $20,000 is 4%
• Next $75, 000 is 3%
• Next $300, 000 is 3.75%
• Next $600,000 is 2.5%
• Greater than $1,000,000 is 2%

Executor Fees in Montana

Montana sets executor compensation by statute.

In states that set specific executor compensation rates by statute, you must use these statutes to calculate executor fees.

So how much should an executor of an estate be paid in Montana?

Executor fees in Montana are subject to this formula:

• First $40,000 is 3%
• Greater than $40,000 is 2%

Montana also sets minimum compensation as the lesser of $100 or the value of the gross estate.

Executor Fees in Nebraska

Nebraska is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Nevada

Nevada sets executor compensation by statute.

In states that set specific executor compensation rates by statute, you must use these statutes to calculate executor fees.

So how much should an executor of an estate be paid in Nevada?

Executor fees in Nevada are subject to this formula:

• First $15,000 is 4%
• Next $85,000 is 3%
• Greater than $100,000 is 2%

Executor Fees in New Hampshire

New Hampshire is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in New Jersey

New Jersey sets executor compensation by statute.

In states that set specific executor compensation rates by statute, you must use these statutes to calculate executor fees.

So how much should an executor of an estate be paid in New Jersey?

Executor fees in New Jersey are subject to this formula:

• First $200,000 is 5%
• $200,001-$1,000,000 is 3.5%
• Greater than $1,000,000 is 2%

Executor Fees in New Mexico

New Mexico is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in New York

New York sets executor compensation by statute.

In states that set specific executor compensation rates by statute, you must use these statutes to calculate executor fees.

So how much should an executor of an estate be paid in New York?

Executor fees in New York are subject to this formula:

• First $100,000 is 5%
• Next $200,000 is 4%
• Next $700,000 is 3%
• Next $4,000,000 is 2.5%
• Remaining amounts greater than $5,000,000 is 2%

Executor Fees in North Carolina

North Carolina law says that executor fees are up to the discretion of the clerk of the superior court but should not exceed five percent (5%).  But how much should you choose as an executor fee in North Carolina without more specific guidelines than that? You should treat North Carolina executor compensation like states that are reasonable compensation states.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in North Dakota

North Dakota is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Ohio

Ohio sets executor compensation by statute.

In states that set specific executor compensation rates by statute, you must use these statutes to calculate executor fees.

So how much should an executor of an estate be paid in Ohio?

Executor fees in Ohio are subject to this formula:

• First $100,000 is 4%
• $100,001-$400,000 is 3%
• Greater than $400,000 is 2%

Executor Fees in Oklahoma

Oklahoma sets executor compensation by statute.

In states that set specific executor compensation rates by statute, you must use these statutes to calculate executor fees.

So how much should an executor of an estate be paid in Oklahoma?

Executor fees in Oklahoma are subject to this formula:

• First $1,000 is 5%
• Next $5,000 is 4%
• Remaining amounts greater than $6,000 is 2.5%

Executor Fees in Oregon

Oregon sets executor compensation by statute.

In states that set specific executor compensation rates by statute, you must use these statutes to calculate executor fees.

So how much should an executor of an estate be paid in Oregon?

Executor fees in Oregon are subject to this formula:

• First $1,000 is 7%
• $1,001-$10,000 is 4%
• $10,001-$50,000 is 3%
• Greater than $50,000 is 2%

Executor Fees in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Rhode Island

Rhode Island is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in South Carolina

South Carolina is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

The South Carolina executor fee has a restriction, though.  Even though executor compensation in South Carolina is supposed to be reasonable compensation, South Carolina executor fees should not exceed 5%.

Executor Fees in South Dakota

South Dakota is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

But unlike other states, South Dakota law sets forth factors to be considered when the court makes a determination of a reasonable fee.

Executor Fees in Tennessee

Tennessee is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Texas

Texas sets executor compensation by statute.

In states that set specific executor compensation rates by statute, you must use these statutes to calculate executor fees.

Executor compensation in Texas is typically 5%.

Executor Fees in Utah

Utah is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Vermont

While Vermont uses the term “necessary expenses,” it can be interpreted as being a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Virginia

Virginia is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in Washington

Washington is a reasonable compensation state for executor fees.

In states that use reasonable compensation to determine executor fees, it means compensation is determined by the probate court. Typically, the probate court will find executor compensation reasonable if it is in line with what people have received in the past as compensation in that area.

For example, if in the last year, executor fees were typically 1.5%, then 1.5% would be considered reasonable and 3% may be unreasonable.  But the court can take into account other factors such as how complicated the estate is to administer and may increase or decrease the amount from there.

Executor Fees in West Virginia

West Virginia sets executor compensation by statute.

In states that set specific executor compensation rates by statute, you must use these statutes to calculate executor fees.

So how much should an executor of an estate be paid in West Virginia?

Executor fees in West Virginia are subject to this formula:

• First $100,000 is 5%
• $100,001-$400,000 is 4%
• $400,001-$800,000 is 3%
• Remaining amounts greater than $800,000 is 2%

Executor Fees in Wisconsin

Wisconsin sets executor compensation by statute.

In states that set specific executor compensation rates by statute, you must use these statutes to calculate executor fees.

Executor compensation in Wisconsin is typically 2%.

Executor Fees in Wyoming

Wyoming sets executor compensation by statute.

In states that set specific executor compensation rates by statute, you must use these statutes to calculate executor fees.

So how much should an executor of an estate be paid in Wyoming?

Executor fees in Wyoming are subject to this formula:

• First $1,000 is 10%
• $1,001-$5,000 is 5%
• $5,001-$20,000 is 3%
• Remaining amounts greater than $20,000 is 2%