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How Much Does Estate Planning Cost in Michigan?

Estate planning in Michigan can cost anywhere from $50 to over $10,000. That’s a vast range—and understandably, it leaves many families wondering: what am I really paying for? And more importantly: what kind of estate plan do I actually need?

In this guide, we break down the real costs of estate planning in Michigan. You’ll learn:

The most common types of estate plans and who they’re best for
What you can expect to pay—from DIY templates to full-service legal packages
How to avoid unnecessary costs and choose the right level of protection for your family

Whether you’re a new homeowner, recently married, starting a family, or planning for retirement, understanding your options is the first step toward creating a plan that protects your assets and honors your wishes.

Let’s walk through the three most common types of estate planning options—and how they fit different needs.

Option 1: DIY Estate Plans

Typical Cost: $50–$300

These are template-based documents you can find online or in office stores. They usually include a simple will, a basic power of attorney, and possibly a healthcare directive. You fill them out yourself, without legal review or customization.

Who These May Work For:

Single individuals with no dependents or real estate
People with minimal assets who want something in place
Those willing to accept the risk of errors or legal gaps

Pros:

Low upfront cost
Fast and easy to access

Cons:

Not tailored to Michigan law or your life situation
Commonly incomplete or improperly executed
Higher risk of probate disputes or invalid documents

Option 2: Full-Service Estate Planning: What It Includes and Who It’s For

Typical Cost: $7,500–$15,000+

These are highly detailed plans often created by large firms or high-end estate specialists. They cover complex family dynamics, tax strategies, business succession, and more, with dozens or even hundreds of pages of documentation.

Who These Are Best For:

High-net-worth families
Business owners with succession planning needs
Complex estates involving trusts, investments, or special needs planning

Pros:

Extremely thorough
Includes planning for edge cases and contingencies

Cons:

High cost
Often overcomplicated for average families
Difficult to understand or use without legal help

These plans often require a table of contents and are more than most families need.

Option 3: Customized Estate Planning by Michigan Attorneys: Costs & Benefits

Typical Cost: $1,500–$5,000

This is where most families find the best balance. These plans are developed by independent law firms that specialize in estate planning. They’re customized to your life—your family, your assets, your goals—and offer more structure and security than DIY options, without the complexity or cost of a large-scale plan.

Who These Fit Best:

Families with minor children
Homeowners looking to avoid probate
Blended families or those with specific wishes
Individuals with real estate, retirement accounts, or small businesses

Pros:

Created by experienced estate planning attorneys
Aligned with Michigan law
Clear, complete, and right-sized for your life

Cons:

Higher cost than DIY
Requires some planning and communication with your attorney

Where JBM Law Fits In

At JBM Law, we specialize in tailored estate planning packages—built to fit your life, your goals, and Michigan law. We don’t overcomplicate things, but we also don’t cut corners. Our work is rooted in practical, clear legal strategies, delivered with a personal approach.

With 15+ years of experience in estate law, probate, real estate, and business, we know how to balance detail with clarity—and we make sure your plan actually works when you need it to.

We work with people like:

Business owners who want to protect and pass on their companies
Real estate investors managing multiple properties or rental income
Blended families with second marriages or unique inheritance goals
Widowers looking to reduce tax exposure and simplify future transitions
SINKs and DINKs (Single Income/No Kids and Dual Income/No Kids households) who want creative, intentional strategies for asset transfer

Whether your priorities are minimizing taxes, avoiding probate, supporting loved ones, or simply getting organized, we’re here to help you plan with confidence.

Estate Planning Package Pricing

Package	Ideal For	Price Range
Basic Package (Individual or Married)	Will, POA, healthcare directive	$1,500–$2,500
Standard Trust Package (Individual or Joint)	Living trust, pour-over will, certificate of trust	$2,500–$3,500
Premium Trust Package (Individual or Joint)	Trust + full POAs + comprehensive planning	$3,500–$5,000

Note: Trust funding may involve additional fees depending on your assets.

FAQs About Estate Planning Costs in Michigan

1. How much does estate planning cost in Michigan?

Estate planning in Michigan can cost anywhere from $50 for a DIY template to over $10,000 for highly complex legal plans. Most families find value in mid-tier options from estate planning attorneys, which typically range from $1,500 to $5,000 depending on your needs.

2. How much does a trust cost in Michigan?

A living trust in Michigan typically costs between $2,500 and $5,000 when created by an experienced estate planning attorney. Costs can be lower if bundled with wills and powers of attorney.

3. How much does a will cost in Michigan?

A basic will in Michigan usually costs $300–$1,000 if drafted by an attorney. Packages that include a will, power of attorney, and healthcare directive often start around $1,500.

4. How much does a living trust cost in Michigan?

A revocable living trust in Michigan usually costs $2,500–$5,000, depending on complexity and whether real estate or business assets are included.

5. How much does probate cost in Michigan?

Probate costs in Michigan vary, but court filing fees, attorney fees, and executor fees often total 3–8% of the estate’s value. A simple estate may cost a few thousand dollars, while more complex cases can exceed $10,000.

6. What is the cost of probate in Michigan compared to a trust?

Probate costs are ongoing and depend on estate value, often far higher than the one-time cost of setting up a living trust. Many families choose a trust to reduce overall costs and streamline asset transfer.

7. How much is the inheritance tax in Michigan?

Michigan does not currently have an inheritance tax. However, federal estate taxes may apply to estates valued over $13.61 million (2024 threshold).

8. What factors influence the cost of an estate plan in Michigan?

Key cost drivers include the complexity of your estate, whether you need a will, trust, or both, the size and structure of your assets, and whether you work with an attorney or use a DIY service.

9. What are the average lawyer fees for estate planning in Michigan?

Most experienced estate planning attorneys in Michigan charge flat fees between $1,500 and $5,000 for a comprehensive plan. Hourly rates, when applicable, can range from $200 to $450 per hour.

10. How do I avoid overpaying for estate planning services in Michigan?

Avoid one-size-fits-all plans or overly complex trusts that include unnecessary details. A tailored plan that matches your goals and estate size often provides the best value.

11. How do estate planning costs vary based on the size of my estate?

Larger or more complex estates—such as those involving businesses, multiple properties, or blended families—often require more comprehensive planning and higher fees. Simpler estates with few assets can often be managed with a basic will or trust.

12. What is included in an estate planning package in Michigan?

Packages often include a will, financial and healthcare powers of attorney, and sometimes a living trust. Pricing typically ranges from $1,500–$5,000 depending on complexity.

13. Are there cost-effective estate planning strategies for families in Michigan?

Yes. Strategies like creating a revocable living trust, clearly assigning beneficiaries, and keeping your plan updated can save money in the long run by avoiding probate and minimizing taxes.