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: $1,000–$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

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

Want to Know What You Actually Need?

We're here to help you figure that out—quickly, clearly, and with your goals in mind.

Schedule a free consultation to receive a personalized estate planning quote tailored to your life, not just a generic template.

FAQs About Estate Planning Costs in Michigan

1. What is the price range for estate planning services 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 $1,000 to $5,000 depending on your needs.

2. What factors influence the cost of an estate plan and will 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.