The Short Answer

In Pennsylvania, opening an estate typically involves (1) upfront court/Register of Wills costs to obtain “letters,” plus (2) ongoing administration expenses (like required advertising), and (3) professional fees (attorney and executor compensation) that are usually paid from estate funds as the administration progresses. Exactly what you’ll owe—and when—depends on the county, the size/complexity of the estate, whether a bond is required, and whether there are tax issues.

What Pennsylvania Law Says

When an estate is opened, a personal representative (executor/administrator) is formally appointed by the county Register of Wills through the issuance of letters. Pennsylvania law also requires public notice of the grant of letters, and it authorizes reasonable compensation for the personal representative—both of which directly affect the costs you should plan for.

The Statute

The primary law governing the initial “opening” step (including the required notice/advertisement after letters are granted) is 20 Pa.C.S. § 3162.

This statute establishes that, after the Register of Wills grants letters, the personal representative must advertise the grant of letters—an expense that is commonly due early in the case and is often one of the first out-of-pocket administration costs.

Another key cost driver is fiduciary compensation. Pennsylvania law provides that the court may allow compensation to the personal representative that is “reasonable and just.” See 20 Pa.C.S. § 3537.

For deeper reading on typical fee categories, you may also want to review: What Probate Attorney Fees and Costs Should I Expect in Pennsylvania? and What Factors Determine the Total Cost of Administering an Estate in Pennsylvania?.

Why You Should Speak with an Attorney

While the statutes provide the general framework, estimating probate costs (and timing) is rarely straightforward. Legal outcomes and total expense often depend on:

• Upfront vs. later costs: Some items are due at the start (e.g., county probate/letters fees and the advertising required by 20 Pa.C.S. § 3162), while others arise as assets are collected, sold, or distributed.
• Bond requirements: In some estates, a bond may be required before letters are granted, which can create a significant early expense depending on the estate value. See 20 Pa.C.S. § 3171.
• Fee reasonableness and disputes: Executor compensation must be “reasonable and just,” and disagreements among beneficiaries can lead to court involvement and higher legal fees. See 20 Pa.C.S. § 3537.

Trying to estimate or pay costs without counsel can lead to avoidable delays, rejected filings, or disputes over what the estate should (and should not) pay.

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Disclaimer: This article provides general information under Pennsylvania law and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws change frequently. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult with a licensed attorney.