Deceased Estate Administration Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost of deceased estate administration. Complexity and how the firm charges (fixed fee vs hourly) are the main drivers. These are indicative estimates only, always confirm fees with the firm before engaging.
Your deceased estate administration details
Your estimate sits within the typical range.
Estate administration cost scales with the complexity, number of assets and any disputes, not just the estate's value. Some firms charge a percentage of the estate, others a fixed or hourly fee, ask which, as a percentage can be dearer on a large estate.
💰 Ways to save
- Ask for a written costs agreement and an estimate up front, you are entitled to one, and it prevents bill shock.
- Ask whether a fixed fee is available for your matter, it caps your exposure where the firm offers it.
- Do the groundwork yourself, gather documents and a clear timeline, so you are not paying lawyer rates for admin.
How we estimate this
Deceased estate administration in Australia typically costs around $1,000 to $3,000 in 2026 for a simple estate, rising to $6,000 to $20,000 or more for complex, contested or intestate estates, plus the probate court filing fee.
Pricing reviewed: November 2026.
Understanding deceased estate administration costs in Australia
Deceased estate administration in Australia typically costs around $1,000 to $3,000 in 2026 for a simple estate, rising to $6,000 to $20,000 or more for complex, contested or intestate estates, plus the probate court filing fee.
Estate administration cost scales with complexity, the number and type of assets, property transfers, and any disputes, rather than just the estate's value. Fee bases vary (fixed, hourly or a percentage), so confirm which applies.
Frequently asked questions
How much does deceased estate administration cost in Australia?
Roughly $1,000 to $3,000 in 2026 for a simple estate, and $6,000 to $20,000 or more for complex, contested or intestate estates, plus the probate filing fee.
Is estate administration charged as a percentage?
Some firms charge a percentage of the estate's value, others a fixed or hourly fee. A percentage can be expensive on a large but simple estate, so ask about the fee basis and compare, you are entitled to an estimate.
Are you a law firm?
Everyone on this page is working out what deceased estate administration costs because they are ready to hire. Put your business right beneath the calculator, in your state, so you are who they find. From $50/mo.