Executor Compensation by State (2025): How Much Do Executors Get Paid?
Being named an executor is an honor, but it is also a major responsibility. Executors handle everything from locating assets and paying debts to filing court paperwork and distributing inheritances. The process can take months and sometimes years.
Because of this, executors are typically entitled to compensation. However, how much they receive depends entirely on the state where probate is filed.
Some states provide a statutory formula that clearly outlines fees. Others allow what is called “reasonable compensation,” which is determined by the court based on the size and complexity of the estate, time spent, and local standards.
Below is a 2025 overview of executor compensation rules by state.
States That Use Statutory Fee Formulas
These states calculate executor compensation using percentage-based formulas written into probate law.
Alabama
Up to 2.5 percent of assets received and 2.5 percent of disbursements.
Arkansas
10 percent of the first $1,000
5 percent of the next $4,000
3 percent of the remainder
California
4 percent of the first $100,000
3 percent of the next $100,000
2 percent of the next $800,000
1 percent of the next $9 million
0.5 percent of the next $15 million
Reasonable amount above $25 million
Florida
Generally 3 percent of the estate value, considered reasonable compensation under statute.
Georgia
2.5 percent of all cash received and disbursed
Additional reasonable compensation not exceeding 3 percent of other assets
Iowa
6 percent of the first $1,000
4 percent of the next $4,000
2 percent of the remainder
Kentucky
Not to exceed 5 percent of the estate value.
Louisiana
2.5 percent of the estate’s gross value.
Maryland
9 percent of the first $20,000
3.6 percent of amounts over $20,000
Missouri
5 percent of the first $5,000
4 percent of the next $20,000
3 percent of the next $75,000
2.75 percent of the next $300,000
2.5 percent of the next $600,000
2 percent over $1 million
Montana
3 percent of the first $40,000
2 percent over $40,000
Nevada
4 percent of the first $15,000
3 percent of the next $85,000
2 percent over $100,000
New Jersey
5 percent of the first $200,000
3.5 percent of the next $800,000
2 percent over $1 million
New York
5 percent of the first $100,000
4 percent of the next $200,000
3 percent of the next $700,000
2.5 percent of the next $4 million
2 percent over $5 million
Ohio
4 percent of the first $100,000
3 percent of the next $300,000
2 percent over $400,000
Oklahoma
5 percent of the first $1,000
4 percent of the next $5,000
2.5 percent over $6,000
Oregon
7 percent of the first $1,000
4 percent of the next $9,000
3 percent of the next $40,000
2 percent over $50,000
Texas
5 percent of all sums received and 5 percent of sums paid out in cash, not exceeding 5 percent of the estate’s gross value.
West Virginia
5 percent of the first $100,000
4 percent of the next $300,000
3 percent of the next $400,000
2 percent over $800,000
Wisconsin
2 percent of the estate’s value.
Wyoming
10 percent of the first $1,000
5 percent of the next $4,000
3 percent of the next $15,000
2 percent over $20,000
States That Allow “Reasonable Compensation”
In the following states, probate courts determine executor fees based on fairness and circumstances:
Alaska
Arizona
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Kansas
Maine
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Nebraska
New Hampshire
New Mexico
North Dakota
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
In these jurisdictions, courts typically evaluate time spent, complexity, results achieved, and local fee standards.
Important Considerations for Executors
Will Provisions
If the will specifies executor compensation, that amount usually controls as long as it complies with state law.
Tax Implications
Executor fees are taxable income. Inheritances are generally not taxable income. Executors who are also beneficiaries sometimes choose to waive fees for tax planning reasons.
Reimbursement of Expenses
Executors are entitled to reimbursement for out of pocket expenses related to estate administration.
Extraordinary Services
If an executor manages litigation, oversees a business, or handles complex tax matters, courts may approve additional compensation.
Managing Executor Responsibilities With More Transparency
Executor compensation is just one part of estate administration. Tracking expenses, managing court filings, and coordinating with attorneys can quickly become overwhelming.
EstateMin gives you full visibility and control over probate-related expenses through a secure client portal connected directly to your attorney. You can track what has been paid, what remains outstanding, and upload receipts or supporting documents in one organized place.
Beyond expense tracking, EstateMin supports executors at every stage of estate administration while streamlining the workflow for attorneys. By centralizing documents, automating routine administrative steps, and enabling secure real time collaboration, EstateMin reduces duplication and administrative burden.
The result is a smoother experience for everyone involved, with estate administration completed up to 50 percent faster.
Ask your attorney about EstateMin’s centralized estate management platform or refer them to learn more.
Sources
Information compiled from:
World Population Review, “Executor Fees by State 2025”
California Probate Code §10800
New York Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act §2307
Texas Estates Code §352.002
Florida Statutes §733.617
Ohio Revised Code §2113.35
For official statutory language, always refer to the most recent version of your state’s probate code or consult a qualified probate attorney.
Disclaimer :
The content provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. EstateMin is a technology provider and does not offer legal services or representation. No attorney-client relationship is formed by accessing this content. While we strive to provide accurate and current information, we make no guarantees regarding completeness, accuracy, or applicability to any particular situation. Readers should consult a licensed attorney for legal advice specific to their circumstances.