What does a simple will actually cost?
CAj_ramos1 month ago
Want to do a simple will and basic POA / healthcare directive. Realistic cost?
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✓ Verified answer from a licensed attorney — shown first
A standard 'simple estate planning package' (will + financial POA + healthcare directive + HIPAA release) is typically $300-$1,000 from a local attorney, depending on geography and complexity. Online services (LegalZoom, Rocket Lawyer, Nolo's WillMaker) are $50-$200 for fill-in-the-blank docs that work for simple situations. The trade-off: an attorney customizes to your state and asks the questions you don't know to ask (guardianship if you have minor kids, retirement plan coordination, blended-family wrinkles). For under-$1m estates with straightforward beneficiaries, either path is reasonable. Pay attention to EXECUTION formalities — wills require state-specific witness and notary procedure to be valid.
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Please readThis is a community space for sharing personal experience — it is not legal advice, and posts here are not from Lawma or your attorney. We strongly encourage you to post under an anonymous handle, keep questions general, and avoid posting private details of your active case. For advice about your own situation, message your attorney.