Executor Fees: How Much Are Executors Paid for Administering an Estate

Executors fees are the fees payable to executors as compensation for probating an estate. The amount of executor fees can range from between 2% to 4% of the value of the estate or, in many cases, can be limited to ‘reasonable compensation’. As the amount which an executor can receive is set out under state law, this amount varies from state to state and also tends to decrease on a percentage basis as the size of the estate increases.

Remember also that as many executors are often relatives or close friends of the deceased they often do not charge executor fees for performing their duties as executor.

While executors get paid, they are generally unable to recover either executor fees for the provision of their services or reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses without the prior approval of the court. In circumstances where it materializes that the executor was incompetent or failed to carry out his or her duties and/or responsibilities as executor, the court may deny the payment of executor fees to the executor or reduce the amount which ought to be payable to the executor.

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Related reading: Executor Duties: Appointment to Final Accounting; Executor Liability: Duties and Common Risks; Should You Agree to Be an Executor?.

Understand executor compensation as part of the estate’s costs

Probate can also be expensive, particularly where it is delayed or contested. Costs may include court fees, legal and accounting fees, valuation costs and executor compensation. Some charges are fixed by law, while others depend on the work required or the fee arrangement. Obtain estimates, confirm how fees are calculated and keep records organized to avoid unnecessary work.

From How to Probate an Estate, 2026 Fourth Edition — Property That Does Not Go Through Probate.

Download the practical guide. Keep a practical reference beside your estate file. The guide includes an executor checklist, sample documents, and explanations of probate and non-probate assets, debts, accounts and distributions.

U.S. guidance. Check the current instructions of the court handling the estate; representation rules vary.

View How to Probate an Estate — 2026 Fourth Edition PDF download