Quick answer: DC probate has a reasonable PR fee (no set rate), some of the highest attorney fees in the US, modest court costs, and — the DC sting — its own estate tax above a $4,988,400 exemption (2026). A simple estate often totals $15,000–$25,000; large estates add the estate tax. Get your own figure with the DC probate cost calculator.
The administration costs, line by line
1. PR fee — reasonable, no rate
Under D.C. Code § 20-751, the personal representative gets "reasonable compensation" (for deaths on or after July 1, 1995) — no set rate — reviewed by the Probate Division on request. In practice about 2%–4% of the estate.
2. Attorney fees — among the highest in the US
Also "reasonable," reviewed by the Court — but DC rates are steep: roughly $300–$600/hour, and $4,000–$8,000 for a straightforward estate, more for complex or contested. See DC probate attorney fees.
3. Court & filing costs
Modest fees to open the estate and publish notice to creditors, plus periodic accountings filed with the Probate Division. See DC probate court fees.
The DC estate tax — the low exemption
| Estate value | DC estate tax (approx.) |
|---|---|
| $4,988,400 | $0 (at exemption) |
| $5,000,000 | $1,299 |
| $6,000,000 | $121,299 |
| $10,000,000 | $681,299 |
Estate tax on estates above $4,988,400; figures are from the official 2026 D-76 computation table — confirm on Form D-76. Run your own numbers in the calculator.
Worked examples (administration only)
| Estate value | PR fee (3%) | Attorney | Court + misc | Admin total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $100,000 | $3,000 | $4,000 | $600 | ≈ $7,600 |
| $500,000 | $15,000 | $7,000 | $600 | ≈ $22,600 |
| $1,000,000 | $30,000 | $11,000 | $600 | ≈ $41,600 |
Court + misc = court/filing ($250) + publication ($200) + copies ($150). Administration only — add DC estate tax separately for estates above $4.99M. If the PR renounces the fee, subtract that column. Run your own numbers in the calculator.
How to reduce DC probate costs
- Use the small estate proceeding for estates up to $80,000 (raised 2026) under D.C. Code § 20-351.
- PR renounces the fee if a family member and beneficiary.
- Shop attorneys — DC rates vary widely; agree a flat fee for a routine estate.
- Plan for the $4.99M estate tax — not portable, so married couples often use credit-shelter trusts. Compare with the DC probate vs living trust calculator.
A local probate attorney can review your estate — many offer a free consultation.