Tennessee Probate Fee Calculator

What Drives Probate Cost in Tennessee

Probate cost is a stack of charges, not a single number. Court filing fees are the visible starting point, but many estates also incur additional notice costs, certified-copy charges, property recordings, appraisals, and legal fees.

Tennessee’s $230 statutory clerk fee to open and close a full estate is uniform statewide, but each county adds its own litigation taxes, data-entry charges, and publication costs, so all-in totals commonly run about $300 to $345 — and certain charter-government counties (for example Davidson and Knox) use the itemized § 8-21-409 schedule instead. This calculator uses planning ranges; confirm the exact total with the county Clerk & Master or probate court clerk.

Court Filing Fees

The court procedure chosen is often the biggest first driver of cost. Simplified procedures usually cost less than full administration.

Additional Charges

Certified copies, publication or notice costs, appraisals, and document recordings can materially change the final number.

Attorney Work

Legal fees depend on the estate's issues. A modest estate with title or creditor problems can cost more than a larger estate with clean paperwork.

How to Use the Estimate

Use the result to set expectations, not to lock in a final fee quote. If the number looks high, the next question is whether all of the property really needs probate or whether some assets already transfer outside court.

From here, compare the estate structure with the estate value calculator, review transfer structure with the beneficiary checker, and use the Tennessee courts page if you need the next local filing contact.

Official Sources and Further Reading

Tennessee Code § 8-21-401 schedule of clerk fees ($230 estate open/close, $41 small estate)Visit source Tennessee Code § 8-21-409 itemized probate fees (certain charter-government counties)Visit source Tennessee Code § 30-2-606 reasonable compensation of the personal representativeVisit source Tennessee Code § 30-4-102 small estate threshold ($50,000)Visit source Tennessee Courts — Court Clerks (judiciary fee information)Visit source IRS Publication 559 for survivors, executors, and administratorsVisit source CFPB guide to managing someone else’s moneyVisit source

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does probate cost in Tennessee?

Tennessee probate cost depends on the procedure used, the county or court involved, and whether the estate needs legal help beyond routine filing. Filing fees are only one piece of the total cost.

What are the Tennessee probate filing fees?

Filing fees vary by procedure and local court. Full administration usually costs more than a simplified transfer path, and additional notice, copy, publication, appraisal, or recording costs may apply.

Do I need an attorney for Tennessee probate?

That depends on the procedure, the court, and the facts of the estate. Some cases are straightforward, while others become much more expensive if title problems, creditor claims, or heir disputes are involved.

How long does Tennessee probate take?

Timelines depend on the procedure, the court, and whether creditor notice, publication, or disputes extend the administration. Simplified procedures can be much faster than full administration.

Want a probate attorney to handle this?

We can connect you with a local attorney in Tennessee.

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Settled Estate is not a law firm and does not give legal advice.

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

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.

Tennessee Probate Cost Calculator