Tennessee Executor Compensation Calculator

What the Calculator Uses in Tennessee

For Tennessee, this page uses the estate value only as planning context. T.C.A. § 30-2-606 uses a reasonable compensation standard and gives no fixed formula for this calculator to apply.

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.

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.

Official Sources and Further Reading

IRS Publication 559 for survivors, executors, and administratorsVisit source CFPB guide to managing someone else’s moneyVisit source

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an executor get paid in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, T.C.A. § 30-2-606 directs the probate clerk to credit the personal representative with reasonable compensation for services. There is no statutory percentage schedule, so this page does not calculate a guaranteed fee.

Is executor compensation taxable in Tennessee?

Executor compensation is usually taxable income, separate from an inheritance. Review the tax treatment before taking or waiving a fee.

Can an executor waive their fee in Tennessee?

A personal representative who is thinking about waiving compensation should document the choice and review the income-tax and estate-accounting effects before making a final decision.

What facts can affect executor compensation in Tennessee?

Court or clerk review can depend on the work performed, estate records, complexity, disputes, real estate, business assets, and whether the requested amount fits the circumstances of the estate.

Note: This tool provides estimates for informational purposes only. Results are not legal advice. Fees and requirements may vary. Full disclaimer

Executor accounting support

Keep the estate accounting organized from the start

Executor compensation questions usually show up late, after months of receipts, reimbursements, bank activity, and beneficiary updates. EstateExec is useful here because it keeps the estate ledger, task list, and reporting workflow in the same place from day one.

✓Tracks estate income, expenses, reimbursements, and distributions in one ledger
✓Helps build the records courts, beneficiaries, and lawyers often want to review
✓Includes executor-compensation and accounting features without turning the process into a monthly subscription

See EstateExec Accounting Tools Open the Tennessee checklist

EstateExec currently offers a free trial with no registration or credit card required, followed by a one-time per-estate license. If you prefer not to use software, a dated executor log, a spreadsheet, and a dedicated estate bank account are still a workable manual path for simpler estates.

Disclosure: if you use EstateExec through this link, Settled may earn a referral fee. We only recommend products we believe are genuinely helpful. See our editorial process.

Information current as of May 31, 2026

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in Tennessee can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.