AARP–The American Association of Retired Persons–did a survey of probate fees a few years ago.
AARP found that, nationwide, attorney fees alone could be as much as $1.5 billion a year, and that hundreds of millions more go to bonding companies, appraisers and the probate courts themselves.
Probate costs vary in each state, but they are usually estimated at 3-8% of an estate's value. If you own property in other states, your family could face multiple probates, each one according to the laws -- and costs -- in that state.
