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The cost of a will or trust in Texas depends on the type of plan and the complexity of your assets and family structure. Many individuals want a straightforward answer before deciding whether to schedule a consultation.

In Texas, professionally prepared estate planning services typically fall within the following ranges:

• Wills: $1,000–$3,000 depending on complexity 
• Trust-based estate plans: $4,000–$10,000+ depending on structure and coordination
• Probate representation: Often begins around $5,000 and increases based on court involvement and estate size

The appropriate plan—and corresponding fee—depends on your specific goals, assets, and family considerations. 

One common source of confusion is the difference between the cost of a single document and the cost of a coordinated estate plan.

For example, someone may hear that a “trust costs $2,500.” In many cases, that figure refers only to the drafting of a standalone trust document. A comprehensive trust-based estate plan typically includes multiple coordinated documents and planning components designed to function together.

Estate planning is not simply the creation of a single document. It involves structuring how assets are owned, clarifying your intentions, coordinating beneficiary designations, and ensuring the plan operates properly during life and at death.

Understanding what is included in a plan is often more important than focusing on the cost of a single document.

Most professionally prepared wills in Texas range from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on complexity. Factors that influence cost include minor children, blended family considerations, real estate ownership, and asset coordination.

Trust-based estate plans in Texas typically range from $4,000 to $10,000 or more depending on structure and asset complexity. Trust planning often includes multiple coordinated documents and is frequently used by individuals seeking to reduce or avoid probate while providing structured management of assets during life and after death. 

Goodcatt & Associates provides flat-fee pricing for most estate planning services so clients understand scope and cost upfront.

Goodcatt & Associates' current planning fees include:

• Individual Will Plan: $1,500 flat fee
• Joint Will Plan (two individuals): $2,500 flat fee
• Comprehensive Trust Solution: $5,500 flat fee
• Enhanced Trust Solution (including business interests and LLC transfers): starting at $7,500+ depending on complexity
• Probate representation: starting at $6,000+ depending on estate complexity
   

The difference between a will and a trust is not simply price—it is structure, coordination, and long-term administration. Each plan is tailored to the client’s individual circumstances, goals, and asset structure.

A comprehensive estate plan addresses two sides of the same coin: asset management and transfer at death, and planning for incapacity during life. Effective planning ensures both areas are coordinated so that your assets are properly managed, your wishes are respected, and your family is not left navigating uncertainty. 

A comprehensive estate plan varies based on individual situations but may include:

• A will or revocable living trust
• Pour-over wills (if trust-based planning is used)
• Durable financial power of attorney
• Medical power of attorney
• HIPAA authorization
• Directive to physicians
• Guardian designation for minor children (if applicable)
• Real estate coordination
• Guidance on funding and implementation
• Business interest transfers where appropriate
   

Trust-based planning often involves a greater degree of coordination and ongoing structure, which is why it typically falls within a higher pricing range across Texas. Trust-based planning is often chosen by individuals who wish to reduce or avoid probate and provide greater continuity or control in the administration of their estate. 

Probate in Texas is the legal process used to administer and settle an estate after death. Costs vary based on the type of proceeding, court requirements, and estate complexity.

Probate procedures and associated costs may vary slightly by county, including Bexar County, Travis County, Harris County, Kendall County, and surrounding jurisdictions, depending on local court requirements and filing practices. 

In many cases, probate representation begins around $5,000 statewide. At Goodcatt & Associates, probate services typically start at $6,000+, with the final fee determined by the procedural and structural needs of the estate.

Online document services may offer template-based wills or trusts at lower price points. These services generally provide standardized forms but do not include individualized legal advice, asset coordination, or implementation guidance.

Attorney-guided estate planning involves evaluating your specific circumstances, identifying potential complications, and structuring a plan tailored to your goals. Different services serve different needs, and understanding those differences helps ensure the plan aligns with your objectives.

Goodcatt & Associates provides flat fees whenever possible so clients know the scope of work and associated cost before moving forward. Every estate plan is designed based on the client’s individual facts, goals, and level of complexity.

The appropriate legal approach and final fee, if any, are determined after reviewing your specific circumstances.

Goodcatt & Associates serves individuals and families in San Antonio, Austin, Houston, and throughout Central Texas and the Hill Country.

In most cases, trust-based estate plans cost more than will-based plans because they involve additional documents, asset coordination, and structured administration. A will primarily directs distribution at death, while a trust may also address management during life and help reduce or avoid probate. The appropriate plan depends on the complexity of your assets and goals.

A will generally must be admitted to probate in order to be carried out. While well-structured will-based planning can help simplify the probate process, a will alone does not typically avoid court involvement.  Trust-based planning is often used by individuals who wish to minimize or, in many cases, avoid probate altogether.  

Online document services often provide standardized templates without individualized legal advice, asset coordination, professional review, or guidance tailored to your specific circumstances. A comprehensive estate plan prepared by an attorney involves strategic planning, customized documentation, coordinated asset structuring, and dedicated attorney time to ensure the plan functions properly during life and at death.  

Estate planning fees are generally driven by complexity rather than geography. Whether you are located in San Antonio, Austin, Houston, the Hill Country or elsewhere in Texas, the cost of a will or trust typically depends on asset structure, family considerations, and the scope of planning involved.

If you would like to discuss which estate plan may be appropriate for your situation, Goodcatt & Associates welcomes the opportunity to guide you through the process.