Many people hesitate to create a last will due to concerns about expenses, but the exact cost depends on the method you choose. You can technically write your own will for free, use an estate planning service for $10 to $250, or pay an attorney between $300 and $1,000 or more. Let’s take a closer look at these options and a few additional factors that might affect the overall price.
What's the average cost of a will
The average cost of a will ranges from $0 to $1,000 or more, depending on how you prepare it. Writing your own will is free, online estate planning services cost $10 to $250, and hiring an attorney typically runs $300 to $1,000+. Here's what you should know about each option before committing to one:
| Method | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Write your own will | $0 | Simple estates with straightforward wishes |
| Online will templates | $0 | Basic needs with some guidance |
| Online estate planning tools | $10–$250 | State-specific compliance without attorney fees |
| Hire an attorney | $300–$1,000+ | Complex estates, trusts, or special considerations |
Write your own will: $0
The most cost-effective way to create a will is to write it yourself. Also known as a holographic will, this is a handwritten legal document that outlines your final wishes for the distribution of your assets. However, holographic wills aren’t legal in every state. Where they are legal, they typically must be entirely in your handwriting, signed by you, and, in some states, notarized. You can also create a will for yourself using a computer, but a typed will may be subject to additional requirements.
Whichever method you choose, the document must still adhere to your state’s laws to be valid and legally binding. After confirming your state’s requirements and regulations, you will generally complete the following steps:
- Outline your assets and how you want them distributed
- Write or type your will according to legal guidelines
- Sign the document (and have it witnessed or notarized if required)
While the potential to save money is appealing, the most notable risks are legal errors or omissions that render the will invalid, and correcting those mistakes later adds costs. This option may work for individuals with straightforward wishes and simple estates who feel confident drafting a legally sound document.
Online will templates: $0
Online templates offer a middle ground between writing your own will from scratch and using paid services. You can find will templates on various websites, most of which offer free options, and simply fill in the blanks with your personal information and wishes. Still, you’ll want to research and choose a reputable source to ensure the template meets your needs and the state’s requirements.
However, similar to the risks of writing your own will, a template may not fully address all legal requirements of a will or your individual circumstances, even from a reputable source. State laws vary, and a generic template might not comply with your jurisdiction's specific standards or offer enough customization for complex estate planning needs.
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Online estate planning tools: $10 to $250
If you’re looking for more guidance beyond what a template can offer, you can use an online estate planning tool or document preparation service to walk you through it. These services typically provide state-specific forms that comply with your jurisdiction’s laws, as well as other important documents like healthcare directives and powers of attorney.
Online estate planning tools are an excellent option for those who want a more reliable process without the higher costs associated with hiring an attorney. While these tools cost more than DIY methods, they’re more likely to cover all necessary legal elements and provide greater peace of mind.
Additionally, services like LegalZoom offer direct attorney support, reviews, and revisions to ensure that your documents are legally enforceable and tailored to your specific needs. Basic last will packages start at $129 for one person and $229 for two people, but you can also compare prices with other online services.
Hire an attorney: $300 to $1,000 or more
Hiring an estate planning attorney to draft your will is undoubtedly the most thorough and secure option. While it’s the most expensive choice, it can be invaluable for those with large or complex estates, specific legal needs, or special considerations that require careful planning (such as trusts or charitable donations).
The cost of hiring an attorney to draft a will can vary based on the fee structure.
- Flat fee: $300 to $600 for a basic will
- Hourly rate: $100 to $500 per hour for complex estate planning needs, depending on the lawyer's experience and the work involved
Altogether, a comprehensive will prepared by an attorney can run up to $1,000, if not more.
Despite the higher cost, working with an attorney has several advantages:
- Personalized legal advice tailored to your situation
- Reduced risk of disputes or challenges after your death
- Greater peace of mind, knowing your will is thorough and legally valid
In many respects, an attorney’s expertise and guidance outweigh the additional cost. If you still have doubts, you might consider meeting with a family law attorney to determine whether to move forward, as many offer free initial consultations.
What are the additional costs to consider?
Like other legal matters, you might be responsible for additional fees related to preparing or amending your will. Here are some potential costs to keep in mind and where you might encounter them:
Notarization fees
Notarization is the process of having a notary public officially witness and authenticate the signing of your will. Depending on your location, fees generally range from $5 to $15 per signature. While notarization isn’t always required by law, it’s highly recommended, especially if you anticipate any challenges to a will you wrote yourself.
Creating related documents
A comprehensive estate plan often includes more than just a will. Other estate planning documents you might need to prepare (and potentially pay for) include the following:
- Healthcare directives. Also known as living wills or advance directives, these documents specify your medical treatment preferences if you become incapacitated. Costs can range from $0 to $200 or more if prepared by an online service or attorney.
- Powers of attorney. This grants someone the authority to make financial or legal decisions on your behalf. Costs are similar to healthcare directives.
The exact costs for these documents can vary depending on your chosen preparation method and location. When using online estate planning tools like LegalZoom, these documents are often bundled with will creation, potentially offering better value than creating each document separately.
Updates and amendments
As your life circumstances evolve, you should update your will to reflect these changes. Some situations that might necessitate a revision or adjustment include the following:
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth or adoption of children
- Drastic changes in financial status
- Changes in relationships with beneficiaries
- Moving to or acquiring property in a different state
The costs for these updates can vary, as some online services offer annual subscriptions or a certain number of revisions. Likewise, an attorney’s rate reflects the amount of work required, so a minor change is likely to be minimal, whereas significant revisions could be priced similarly to creating a new will.
Potential probate court costs
While not a direct cost of creating a will, it’s important to plan for potential probate costs your estate may incur after your passing. These expenses, which include probate lawyer fees, typically range from 3% to 7% of the total estate value, and in some cases even more. However, careful estate planning can often minimize or avoid these costs, not to mention some of the stresses of the probate process.
While it may seem tempting to opt for the least expensive option, remember the ultimate goal of a will: to reflect your wishes and protect your loved ones. The upfront costs of using an online service or partnering with an attorney may be higher, but you’re far more likely to secure your legacy and provide for your beneficiaries as you intend.
Will cost FAQs
What is the best price for a will?
The best price depends on your needs and the complexity of your estate. You can create one yourself for free, or pay $300 to $600+ for an attorney-drafted will that ensures validity.
What type of lawyer is best for wills?
An estate planning or family lawyer is the best professional to draft a will. This type of lawyer specializes in wills, trusts, and estate law, so they’re best equipped to address your concerns and wishes for your estate.
Can I write my own legally valid will?
Yes, you can write your own legally valid will. However, you must follow your state's requirements carefully to avoid legal challenges—an estate planning attorney can help ensure validity.
What’s the difference between using an online service and hiring an attorney?
Online services are cost-effective but may lack personalization, while attorneys offer tailored advice and handle complex situations at a higher cost. For complex estates or specific legal needs, an attorney is the safer choice.
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