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Ohio Executor Compensation Calculator

Ohio sets ordinary fiduciary compensation by statute: tiered percentages on personal property and sale proceeds, plus a flat 1% on unsold real property.

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What the Calculator Uses in OhioThe method behind the estimate, and what it leaves out

For Ohio, this page applies the ORC § 2113.35 tiered percentages to personal property (plus proceeds of real property sold during administration) and 1% to real property that is not sold. It does not include the separate 1% on qualifying non-probate property, extraordinary compensation, or attorney fees, which Ohio reviews under a reasonable-fee standard (ORC 2113.36).

The estimate is a starting point, not a guaranteed fee. Courts can still review the work performed, the estate documents, and whether the representative is seeking compensation for services beyond the ordinary baseline.

What affects the feeOrdinary rules, extraordinary services, and tax consequences

Ordinary Fee Rule

The estimate begins with the state-specific ordinary compensation method, not a one-size-fits-all national formula.

Extraordinary Services

Sales of real property, business management, litigation, tax work, and unusual court proceedings can justify additional compensation in some estates.

Tax Consequences

Executor compensation is usually treated differently from the inheritance itself, which is why many fiduciaries consider whether waiving the fee creates a better tax result.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an executor get paid in Ohio?
Ohio executor fees follow a statutory schedule under ORC § 2113.35: 4% on the first $100,000 of estate assets, 3% on the next $300,000, and 2% on everything above $400,000, applied to personal property that passes through probate plus the proceeds of real property sold during administration. Real property that is not sold is subject to a separate 1% fee. An executor administering a $500,000 estate of personal property would receive $15,000.
Can an executor charge more than the statutory fee in Ohio?
The standard fee schedule is the default, but an executor may petition the probate court for extraordinary compensation if the estate requires services beyond the normal scope. Examples include managing litigation, operating a business, or handling unusually complex tax matters. The court must approve any additional compensation.
What is the 1% fee on non-probate assets in Ohio?
ORC § 2113.35 also entitles the fiduciary to a fee of 1% on the value of property that is not subject to administration and that would have been includable for computing the Ohio estate tax, except joint-and-survivorship property, which is expressly excluded. Ohio's estate tax was repealed effective January 1, 2013, so this is a historical measure that defines the category of property the fee reaches. The fee must be approved by the probate court with the rest of the fiduciary's compensation, and this calculator does not include it.
Can co-executors split the fee in Ohio?
When multiple executors serve together, they share the statutory fee. The total fee does not increase because there are more executors. Co-executors must agree on how to divide the fee, or the court will allocate it based on each executor's contribution.
What if the will specifies a different compensation amount in Ohio?
A will may specify executor compensation that differs from the statutory schedule. If the will provides for a specific fee, the executor may accept the will's terms or elect to take the statutory fee instead. The executor is not bound to accept less than the statutory amount unless they agree to do so.
Is executor compensation taxable in Ohio?
Yes. Executor compensation is taxable ordinary income to the executor and must be reported on their federal and Ohio state income tax returns. Depending on the circumstances, the compensation may also be subject to self-employment tax. The estate can deduct executor fees as an administration expense.
Official Sources and Further ReadingOfficial references used for this page

Information current as of May 31, 2026

Settled Estate is not a law firm, and this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in Ohio can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.

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