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How Much Does an Estate Plan Really Cost?

Let’s get right to it: most estate plans with The Elder Law Group range from $2,000 to $4,000, depending on your family situation and what type of plan best fits your goals.

That price includes:

  • Custom legal documents (not templates)

  • Attorney strategy sessions

  • Personalized guidance to help you protect your family, avoid probate, and stay in control of your future

The most important thing to remember is that you’re not just paying for paperwork, you’re gaining peace of mind that your family’s future is protected, your wishes are clear, and everything is handled with care and legal precision. 

What’s Included in an Estate Plan?

Most people are surprised by how much an estate plan covers. Depending on your needs, your plan may include:

Basic Documents

  • Financial Durable Power of Attorney

  • Healthcare Power of Attorney

  • Advance Directive (Living Will)

  • Last Will & Testament

  • Guardianship Designations for minor children (if applicable)

Sometimes Included

  • Revocable Living Trust

Why Estate Planning Costs What it Does

Behind every estate plan is hours of strategic, individualized legal work—not just forms.

  1. Tailored Legal Advice
    Your attorney learns your financial picture, family dynamics, and goals to design a plan that fits you, not a generic template.

  2. Avoiding Court Costs Later
    Probate court in Missouri can cost thousands in attorney and court fees (often $6,000+ on a $100,000 estate). A plan now can save your loved ones time, stress, and money later.

  3. Preventing Family Disputes
    Clear documents reduce confusion, conflict, and court fights, preserving family harmony when it matters most.

  4. Protecting Assets for the Future
    Estate planning can help you preserve your home and savings against long-term care costs.

  5. Caring for Vulnerable Loved Ones
    You can name guardians for children or set up special needs trusts for dependents who need ongoing care.

The Elder Law Group’s Transparent Pricing

We believe in clarity and upfront pricing, with no surprises.

Plan Type What’s Included Typical Range
Basic Estate Plan Financial & Healthcare POAs, Advance Directive, Will $2,000 – $3,000
Comprehensive Estate Plan Adds a Revocable Trust & Pour-over Will $2,500 – $4,000
Advanced Estate Plan For blended families, business owners, or asset protection Quoted individually
Beneficiary Deeds Per deed + county recording fees $200 + Recorder’s Fee

What to Expect During Your Consultation

Your first meeting is a working session designed to give you clarity and real answers. Here’s what happens:

  1. Personalized Discussion – You’ll meet with an attorney who listens, learns about your family, and understands your goals.

  2. Document Review – If you have existing documents, we’ll review them and flag any gaps or outdated clauses.

  3. Education & Guidance – We explain what tools (like trusts or powers of attorney) best fit your goals.

  4. Custom Recommendations – You’ll leave with a clear plan of action and transparent pricing.

  5. Next Steps – If you move forward, we apply your consultation fee to your plan.


Why We Charge a Consultation Fee

Our consultations aren’t quick “free chats.” They’re genuine, attorney-led strategy sessions that provide immediate value, even if you never hire us.

We take the time to understand your family, your finances, and your future. Most clients leave with clarity, confidence, and a roadmap forward. And if you do choose to work with us, your consultation fee is credited toward your plan.

Already Have a Plan? We’ll Review It.

If you already have documents—wills, trusts, or powers of attorney—we’ll review them to ensure they are current and legally sound. Life changes like marriage, divorce, or moving to Missouri can impact your plan’s effectiveness.

You’ll receive honest feedback, not pressure. We’ll tell you what’s working and what might need updating, so you can move forward with confidence.

Melinda Brinker