Illinois Probate Costs: Small Estate Affidavit and Full Probate (2026)

Illinois probate costs vary significantly depending on whether your estate qualifies for the streamlined small estate affidavit or requires full probate.

Small Estate Affidavit Costs (Under $150,000)

Expense	Cost
Death certificates (10)	$100 - $200
Notary	$10 - $25
Document copies	$20 - $50
Postage and misc.	$20 - $50
Total	$150 - $325

This process closes in 2 to 4 weeks at minimal cost. No attorney needed.

Full Probate Costs (Over $150,000 or With Real Property)

Expense	Cost
Probate court filing fee	$300 - $400
Death certificates and notices	$150 - $250
Probate attorney fees (flat fee typical)	$4,000 - $7,000
Inventory filing and court costs	$100 - $200
CPA/tax services (if needed)	$1,000 - $2,000
Appraisals (if real property)	$500 - $2,000
Total	$6,050 - $11,850

Real Example: $200,000 Illinois Estate

If assets exceed $150,000 or include real property, full probate is required:

Item	Cost
Court filing	$300 - $400
Death certificates and notices	$150 - $250
Attorney (flat fee)	$4,500 - $6,000
Tax services	$800 - $1,200
Miscellaneous	$200 - $300
Total	$5,950 - $8,150

This represents about 3 to 4% of estate value.

Ways to Reduce Costs

1. Use small estate affidavit if eligible (saves $6,000+)
2. Negotiate flat fee with attorney (more predictable)
3. Keep organized records (reduces attorney time)
4. Handle routine tasks yourself (collect documents, notify institutions)
5. Use ExecutorBench ($399 guided or $1,495 complete) to manage tasks and deadlines independently

Use ExecutorBench's probate cost estimator to get an estimate for your Illinois estate.

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Disclaimer: ExecutorBench provides self-help workflow software and document preparation support. It is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Costs vary by county and complexity. Consult an attorney licensed in Illinois for a specific quote.