The honest answer to “how much does estate planning cost?” is: it depends on what you need and what you risk by not having it. Rather than quote dollar figures that vary by attorney and by your situation, this Brooklyn-focused checklist explains the cost drivers so you can budget intelligently.
What you are actually paying for
A basic plan usually bundles several documents: a last will and testament (executed under EPTL §3-2.1), a durable power of attorney (GOL §5-1513), and a health care proxy (PHL Article 29-C). More involved plans add a revocable living trust (EPTL Article 7), a pour-over will, and beneficiary coordination. The more documents and the more moving parts, the more time, and time is what you are paying for.
Flat fee vs hourly
Many Brooklyn estate attorneys offer flat-fee packages for standard plans, which gives you predictability. Hourly billing is more common for complex estates, business interests, blended families, or contested matters. Ask up front which model applies and exactly what is included, so you are not surprised by add-ons.
What drives the price up
- Real property: Brooklyn co-ops, condos, and multi-family homes add complexity, especially co-ops with board approval issues on transfer.
- Trust funding: A trust that is drafted but never funded is wasted money; proper funding (retitling assets) takes attorney time.
- Tax exposure: Estates approaching the 2026 New York exclusion of $7,350,000, and especially the cliff near $7,717,500, need tax-sensitive planning that costs more but can save far more.
- Medicaid planning: Irrevocable trusts with the five-year look-back in mind require specialized drafting.
The cost of doing nothing
This is the figure most people overlook. Dying without a plan sends your estate through intestacy (EPTL Article 4) and full probate in Kings County Surrogate’s Court. Court filing fees in New York scale with estate size, and the process can take many months. Family disputes, an unnecessary tax cliff, or a rejected DIY will can cost your heirs far more than a properly drafted plan would have cost you.
Probate vs trust-based planning
A will alone still goes through Surrogate’s Court (SCPA governs the process). A properly funded revocable trust can keep assets out of probate, saving time and court costs later. The trust costs more to set up but may reduce the burden on your family. Weigh the upfront fee against the back-end savings.
Questions to ask before you hire
- Is this a flat fee or hourly, and what is included?
- Does the fee cover trust funding, or is that extra?
- Will you review beneficiary designations on my accounts?
- How will you address the New York estate tax cliff if it applies to me?
- What are the ongoing or update costs after signing?
Consult a New York attorney
Pricing only makes sense in the context of your assets and goals. Speak with a licensed New York estate planning attorney who serves Brooklyn for a clear, written fee quote tied to your situation. This article is general information, not legal advice or a fee schedule.
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