How Much Does Probate Cost in Florida?
Complete fee breakdown for all Florida probate options
Court filing fees, attorney costs, timelines, and additional expenses
Quick Summary: Florida Probate Costs
These are Florida court filing fees. Total costs include attorney fees, court costs, and other expenses which can add thousands to your total.
Florida Probate Fees by Type
| Probate Type | Estate Value | Court Filing Fee | Timeline | Attorney Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disposition Without Administration | Under $6,000 | $232 | 1-2 months | No |
| Summary Administration | Under $75,000 | $236 - $346 | 3-6 months | No (but recommended) |
| Formal Administration | Over $75,000 or complex | $401 | 6-12+ months | Yes |
Additional Probate Costs
Attorney Fees
Florida attorney fees are typically based on estate value. Required for formal administration.
Court Costs
Publication fees (newspaper notices), certified copies, recording fees for real estate transfers.
Bond Premium
If the will requires bond or beneficiaries request it. Depends on estate value.
Appraisal Fees
Real estate, personal property, and business valuations required for larger estates.
Accountant/CPA
Final tax returns (federal and Florida has no estate tax), estate accounting.
Total Cost Estimate by Estate Size
*Estimates vary based on attorney rates, complexity, and specific county requirements.
Ways to Reduce Probate Costs in Florida
Use Simplified Procedures
If the estate qualifies, simplified procedures like summary administration save thousands in fees.
Learn About Small Estate Options →Consider a Living Trust
Trusts avoid probate entirely. While setup costs $1,500-$5,000, they can save much more in probate fees and keep your affairs private.
Probate vs Trust Comparison →Beneficiary Designations
Bank accounts, retirement accounts, and life insurance with named beneficiaries bypass probate entirely.
Request Fee Waiver
Florida courts offer fee waivers for those who cannot afford court fees. Contact your county clerk for an application.
Find Your Florida County's Probate Information
Get specific court locations, self-help center information, and local filing details for your county.
Browse Florida CountiesFrequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest probate option in Florida?
Disposition Without Administration is the cheapest option at $232 court filing fee, available for estates under $6,000 in assets. Summary Administration is next at $236-$346 for estates under $75,000.
Do I need an attorney for probate in Florida?
Florida law requires an attorney for Formal Administration. Summary Administration and Disposition Without Administration can be done without an attorney, but many people choose to hire one for complex cases.
How much does a probate attorney cost in Florida?
Florida probate attorneys typically charge 3-5% of estate value, though some charge hourly rates ($200-$400/hour). For a $100,000 estate, expect $3,000-$5,000 in attorney fees.
Can I get a fee waiver for probate in Florida?
Yes, Florida courts offer indigent fee waivers for petitioners who cannot afford court fees. Contact your county clerk to request an Application for Civil Indigent Status and provide financial documentation.
Are probate fees the same across all Florida counties?
Court filing fees are standardized across Florida per state statutes. However, additional costs like publication fees, certified copy fees, and attorney rates may vary by county.
How long does probate take in Florida?
Summary Administration typically takes 3-6 months. Formal Administration takes 6-12+ months depending on estate complexity, creditor claims, and court backlog.
Need Help Determining Which Option Applies?
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Take Free AssessmentSources & Verification
Legal Authority: Florida Statutes Chapter 733-735
Fee Source: Florida Clerk of Court fee schedules
Last Verified: January 2026
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and fees may change. Always verify current fees with your local court clerk before filing.