How Much Does Probate Cost in Florida?
Compare filing fees, attorney costs, and timelines across the most common probate options in Florida.
Quick Summary
Probate Cost by Procedure
| Procedure | Estate Size | Court Fee | Timeline | Attorney? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disposition Without Administration | Narrow personal-property cases only | $232 | A few weeks to 2 months | No | Exempt-property/final-expense cases or certain intestate estates up to $10,000 after 1 year |
| Summary Administration | Under $75,000, or more than 2 years after death | $236 - $346 | 3-6 months | No (but recommended) | Small to medium estates and older estates |
| Formal Administration | Over $75,000 or complex | $401 | 6-12+ months | Yes | Large estates, disputes, or no will |
Additional Costs to Expect
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.
Typical Total Cost Ranges
Source Notes
- Statute / Authority
- Florida Statutes Chapter 733-735
- Fee Source
- Florida Clerk of Court fee schedules
- Last Verified
- March 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest probate option in Florida?
Disposition Without Administration is usually the cheapest Florida court option at about $232, but it is narrower than a flat dollar threshold. It is usually limited to exempt-property/final-expense cases or certain intestate personal-property estates with up to $10,000 of nonexempt personal property after the decedent has been dead more than 1 year. Summary Administration is the broader simplified option at about $236-$346.
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.
Estimate Your Florida Probate Path
Use our Florida assessment and calculator tools to see which probate process may apply and what it may cost.