Wisconsin Probate Cost: Fees and Register in Probate Checks
Wisconsin probate cost planning starts with the value-based Register in Probate filing fee, which scales at 0.2% of net value with no cap, then adds publication, copies, bond, and professional help as the estate requires.
Wisconsin probate cost planning works best when it separates the Register in Probate filing fee from publication, certified copies, bond, appraisal, real estate, tax, and professional help. Unlike many states with a flat filing fee, Wisconsin charges $20 when the net value of property subject to administration is $10,000 or less, and 0.2% of net value with no cap above that (Wis. Stat. 814.66(1)(a)).
Use this page as a planning checklist, not a bill. Transfer by affidavit, a summary path, informal administration, and formal administration can create different fee and document needs. Confirm the current amount with the county Register in Probate before mailing a packet, budgeting notices, or reimbursing an estate expense.
Quick Summary
- Transfer by Affidavit
- $0Up to $50,000 gross value
- Register in Probate Fee
- $20 / 0.2%$20 if net value under $10K, else 0.2% (no cap)
- PR Commission
- 2%Wis. Stat. 857.05(2)
- State Estate Tax
- $0No Wisconsin estate or inheritance tax
The Register in Probate filing fee formula is statewide, but county Registers in Probate may publish local copy, certification, publication, payment, and scheduling details. Confirm the current amount with the county Register in Probate handling the estate.
Typical Total Cost Ranges
Estimate your county’s exact feesProbate Cost by Procedure
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| Procedure | Estate Size | Court Fee | Timeline | Attorney? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transfer by Affidavit | $50,000 or less in gross value subject to administration; limited real property only when recorded | $0 court filing fee for the affidavit | Generally available after death; 30-day hold may apply for will-named representatives | No | Smaller estates collecting accounts, vehicles, and personal property |
| Summary Settlement / Summary Assignment | $50,000 or less (867.01 with surviving family or expense absorption; 867.02 after secured debts) | Value-based: $20 if net value is $10,000 or less, otherwise 0.2% of net value (no cap) | County court timing varies | No (often useful) | Small estates that need a court order rather than an affidavit |
| Informal Administration | No simple dollar cap | Value-based: $20 if net value is $10,000 or less, otherwise 0.2% of net value (no cap) | County court timing varies | No (often useful) | Uncontested estates handled by the probate registrar without continuous court supervision |
| Formal Administration | No simple dollar cap | Value-based: $20 if net value is $10,000 or less, otherwise 0.2% of net value (no cap) | County court timing varies | No (often useful) | Disputed estates, testacy or heirship questions, or matters needing a judge |
Additional Costs to Expect
Register in Probate Filing Fee
Wis. Stat. 814.66(1)(a) sets the filing fee at $20 when the net value of property subject to administration is $10,000 or less, and 0.2% of net value otherwise. Because there is no cap, the fee scales with estate value (for example, about $2,000 on a $1,000,000 net estate). You pay the fee when you file the inventory, the document that sets the net value of the estate, not at the moment you open the case.
Personal Representative Compensation
Wis. Stat. 857.05(2) allows a commission of 2% computed on the inventory value (less mortgages or liens) plus net principal gains, or a rate agreed to in writing. Courts may allow additional compensation for extraordinary services.
Publication and Notice to Creditors
Creditor notice publication adds cost when an estate is opened. The newspaper that publishes it sets the rate, often $50 to $200 depending on the county and paper.
Certified Copies and Court Documents
Letters, orders, inventories, and certified copies for banks, title work, and transfer agents can add document charges beyond the filing fee. Wisconsin vital records charge about $20 per certified copy of a death certificate.
Bond, Appraisal, and Valuation Work
A bond may be required depending on the will and court order. Real estate, business interests, or disputed values may create appraisal and valuation costs that also affect the value-based filing fee.
Real Estate, Recording, Title, and Professional Help
Real estate recording with the Register of Deeds, title work, vehicle title transfers, tax preparation, accounting, and attorney help can cost more than the opening court fee in some estates. Wisconsin has no state estate or inheritance tax.
One more cost source to check: if the person who died received Medicaid long-term care benefits, the state may file a recovery claim against the estate. The Wisconsin Medicaid estate recovery guide explains when that applies.