Quick answer: Kentucky caps the executor fee at 5% of the personal estate (real estate excluded), a reasonable attorney fee, and modest court fees. The big variable is the inheritance tax: $0 to a spouse, child or sibling, but 4–16% to an in-law and 6–16% to a cousin or friend. On a $500,000 estate to a child, expect ~$25,000 executor + attorney fee + court costs. Get your own figure with the Kentucky probate cost calculator.
The executor fee — 5% cap on personal estate
Under KRS 395.150(1), the fee can't exceed 5% of the personal estate plus 5% of income collected. Real property is not in the base.
The Kentucky inheritance tax — the defining cost
| $100,000 to… | Inheritance tax |
|---|---|
| Spouse / child / sibling / niece (Class A) | $0 |
| In-law / aunt / uncle (Class B) | $8,960 |
| Cousin / friend (Class C) | $12,670 |
This is usually the largest single cost for a non-exempt beneficiary. Kentucky has no estate tax. Pay within 9 months for a 5% discount.
Worked total examples ($500,000 estate)
| Heir | Executor (5%) | Attorney | Court + misc | Inheritance tax | Approx. total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child (Class A) | $25,000 | $6,000 | $250 | $0 | ≈ $31,250 |
| In-law (Class B) | $25,000 | $6,000 | $250 | $70,960 | ≈ $102,210 |
| Cousin (Class C) | $25,000 | $6,000 | $250 | $76,670 | ≈ $107,920 |
Court + misc = ~$70 filing + $100 publication + $80 copies. If the executor waives the fee, subtract that column. Run your own numbers in the calculator.
How to reduce Kentucky probate costs
- Executor waives the fee if a family member and beneficiary (it's taxable income).
- Leave assets to Class A relatives (0% inheritance tax) where the plan allows.
- Pay the inheritance tax within 9 months for the 5% discount.
- Use dispense-with-administration or the $30,000 spousal allowance (KRS 391.030).