Estate Planning Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank:
What It Really Costs in Metro East and St. Louis
When people think about estate planning, they often imagine complicated legal documents and sky-high attorney fees. But the truth is, a good estate plan can be affordable, especially when you work with a local firm that offers clear pricing and practical advice.
At A.H.Steinmetz, Ltd., we help individuals and families across St. Louis, St. Clair County, Monroe County, Madison County, and the Greater St. Louis Region create customized estate plans at a predictable cost.
What Does Estate Planning Typically Cost in This Area?
Estate planning fees vary based on the complexity of your needs and the type of plan you choose. In the Metro East and St. Louis region, clients can expect the following general ranges:
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Simple wills typically range from $500 to $1,200.
These are best for individuals with minimal assets, no minor children, and straightforward distribution wishes. -
Comprehensive will-based estate plans can start as low as $1,000 and reach as much as $2,000, depending on the level of customization.
These plans often include a last will and testament, durable power of attorney, healthcare power of attorney, living will, HIPAA authorization, and a beneficiary review. -
Revocable living trust-based plans generally range from $1,800 to $5,000 or more, depending on asset structure, real estate, and family dynamics.
These typically include a fully funded trust, pour-over will, powers of attorney, real estate deed, HIPAA authorization, and guidance on how to title your assets properly. -
Advanced planning strategies—such as asset protection, estate tax planning, special needs trusts, or business succession planning—generally begin at $4,000+ and vary based on complexity.
What About Online Legal Services?
You may see online platforms advertising wills or trusts for $99–$299. While these can appear cost-effective, they often leave out key components:
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No in-person witnessing or notarization
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No custom legal advice for blended families, minor children, real estate, or taxes
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No help with funding a trust or recording property deeds
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No review for compliance with Illinois or Missouri law
In many cases, clients come to us later needing to fix or redo an incomplete plan—sometimes after a death has occurred and it’s too late to correct the mistakes. The cost of cleaning up a poorly executed estate plan can far exceed what it would have taken to do it right from the start.
When it comes to your family’s future, a “cheap” estate plan often turns out to be the most expensive option.
What Impacts the Cost?
Across the industry, most law firms—including ours—consider similar key factors when determining the cost of an estate plan. While fees may vary from one attorney to another, the following elements tend to influence pricing across the board:
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Type of plan – A basic will-based plan is typically more affordable than a trust-based plan, which involves additional drafting, asset transfers, and long-term planning.
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Real estate ownership – If you own property in multiple states, additional documents and coordination may be required to avoid multiple probate proceedings.
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Number of beneficiaries – More heirs often means a more complex distribution plan and increased drafting or planning time.
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Family structure – Blended families, disinherited heirs, or strained relationships may require extra legal considerations and customized provisions.
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Special assets or planning needs – Estates involving farms, closely held businesses, high-value portfolios, or individuals with special needs typically require more advanced strategies, which can increase overall costs.
These are the same kinds of factors that estate planning attorneys throughout Illinois, Missouri, and beyond use when quoting fees—so even when comparing firms, you’ll often see prices follow similar patterns based on your personal circumstances.
Need a refresher on the difference between wills and trusts? Visit our Estate Planning page for an overview.
Flat Fees. No Guesswork.
At A.H.Steinmetz, Ltd., most estate planning services are offered on a flat-fee basis—so you’ll know the cost upfront with no hourly billing surprises or hidden fees.
We begin with a free phone consultation to understand your goals and circumstances. Based on that discussion, we provide an estimated price quote tailored to your situation.
If you decide to move forward, you’ll receive:
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A written flat-fee agreement
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A full explanation of every document we prepare
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Complimentary witnessing and notarization services
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Assistance with funding your trust or retitling assets as needed
If your plan involves special complexities—such as business interests, multiple properties, or tax planning—we’ll identify those issues early and explain your options clearly.
Our Process: Simple, Transparent, and Local
Here’s what you can expect when working with A.H.Steinmetz, Ltd.:
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Free Phone Consultation
We’ll discuss your goals, answer your initial questions, and provide an estimated flat-fee quote based on your needs. -
Custom Plan and Written Fee Agreement
If you decide to proceed, we’ll create a tailored estate plan and clearly outline all costs—no pressure, no surprises. -
Document Review, Signing, and Notarization
We guide you through every document we prepare and provide complimentary witnessing and notarization services. -
Ongoing Support
We’re available for amendments, asset updates, and questions as your needs evolve over time.
We’re also happy to coordinate with your financial advisor, accountant, or business partners to ensure your estate plan integrates seamlessly with your broader financial picture.
Backed by Illinois and Missouri Law
We don’t use generic templates or one-size-fits-all plans. Your documents will comply with:
We also work closely with the Illinois Secretary of State and Missouri Secretary of State when estate planning involves closely held businesses or out-of-state compliance.
Need Ongoing Help for Your Business or Trust?
In addition to estate plans, we provide trusted counsel in:
Many of our estate planning clients return to us not only for help managing family trusts, guiding executors, or updating plans over time, but also for ongoing business counsel, including entity formation, governance, and transactions.
Let’s Talk About Your Estate Plan
We’re not here to push a product—we’re here to help you plan with confidence. Whether you need a basic will or a complex trust-based plan, we’ll give you the clarity you deserve.
