How much does estate planning cost?

Planning for the future isn’t just about saving or investing—it’s also about making sure your assets, family, and wishes are protected. That’s where estate planning comes in. But one of the first questions many people ask is: How much will this cost? 

The truth is, estate planning expenses can vary widely depending on your goals, your assets, and the types of documents or services you need. In this guide, we’ll break down the factors that affect cost, typical price ranges, and ways to get the most value from your estate plan.

How much does estate planning cost?

The cost of estate planning varies depending on the complexity of your situation. 

Here’s a general breakdown:

• Basic estate plan: For simple wills and powers of attorney, you might pay anywhere from $150 to $500 if you use online tools, or around $300 to $1,000 with an attorney.
• Comprehensive estate plan: If you need a combination of wills, trusts, health care directives, and other documents, costs can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more with a qualified attorney.
• Complex estate planning: For high-net-worth individuals or those with multiple properties, business interests, or blended families, costs can exceed $10,000, depending on how customized the plan is.

Even though estate planning comes with a price tag, investing in a well-thought-out plan can save your family time, stress, and money in the future.

Types of estate planning fee structures

Here are a few different types of estate planning structures that can impact the cost:

• DIY costs: Several platforms offer DIY estate plans for a fee. You will also need to take your documents to a notary when they’re complete, which has additional costs. Prices can range from $0 to $500.
• Hourly rate: It’s common for attorneys to charge an hourly rate for their time, which can be $100 to $500, depending on your location, the size of your estate, and the attorney’s level of experience.
• Flat fees: Many attorneys offer flat fees for common estate planning documents like wills, trusts, or powers of attorney. Costs typically range from $300 to $1,000 for a simple will and $1,000 to $3,000 (or more) for a trust package, depending on complexity. This option gives you predictability and avoids hourly charges.

Hiring an attorney vs. DIY estate planning

When it comes to estate planning, you can work with a professional or do it yourself. Both have pros and cons, depending on your needs.

Hiring an attorney:

• Personalized guidance: Attorneys can tailor your estate plan to your unique family situation, assets, and goals.
• Complex situations handled: If you have multiple properties, business interests, or blended families, an attorney can ensure everything is structured correctly.
• Peace of mind: Professional oversight reduces the risk of errors, missed legal requirements, or challenges down the road.
• Higher cost: Legal expertise comes at a price—expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 or more depending on complexity.

DIY estate planning:

• Lower cost: Online tools and templates can cost as little as $100 to $500 for basic wills or trusts.
• Convenience: You can complete your documents from home at your own pace.
• Simplicity: works well for straightforward situations with few assets and heirs.
• Limitations: DIY plans may not address complex family dynamics, tax implications, or business succession, and mistakes could cause issues later.

Bottom line: If your estate is simple and you feel confident navigating legal documents, DIY options can be a budget-friendly choice. If your situation is more complex or you want professional guidance for peace of mind, hiring an attorney is often worth the investment.

Frequently asked questions

At what net worth do you need estate planning?

All adults should have an estate plan, regardless of their income, assets, or net worth. Your estate planning documents contain information about your end-of-life wishes, who you want to be your power of attorney, health directives, beneficiary information, and more. Estate planning is not about how much you have, but about honoring your wishes and ensuring they are fulfilled. 

How much does an estate planning lawyer cost?

Estate planning costs vary depending on where you live and how complex your estate is. Some lawyers charge hourly rates for their legal fees, while others offer flat-rate packages. Contact a few estate planning attorneys in your area to compare their costs, timelines, and experience levels before selecting one.

What’s typically included in an estate planning package?

Estate planning packages can include a variety of documents and forms depending on your needs. Some standard packages include your will, healthcare directives, power of attorney forms, guardianship designations, life insurance information, beneficiary forms, and other related documents. Creating a trust typically costs extra.

Can you pay for estate planning with a payment plan?

Yes, many (but not all) attorneys offer installment payments, and some online estate plan providers do as well. If a payment plan is important to you, consider consulting with an attorney or an online estate planning service before proceeding.

Final thoughts

Estate planning can feel intimidating—with expenses, paperwork, and a process that sometimes seems lengthy—but taking the time to plan now can save your loved ones time, stress, and money later.

Many attorneys offer streamlined, straightforward estate plans that you can complete quickly. Additionally, with the advent of many online platforms designed to make the estate planning process more affordable and accessible, people can DIY many estate planning forms for a nominal fee.

Whether you work with an attorney or use DIY tools, a thoughtful plan ensures your assets and wishes are protected.