Who pays the probate fee on an estate in Newfoundland and Labrador?

This answer covers the law of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The probate fee is payable by the executor or administrator, but only as the estate's representative, not personally. The fee is $60 where the estate does not exceed $1,000, plus $0.60 for each additional $100 of estate value.

It is based on the inventory and valuation of property in Newfoundland and Labrador. For example, a $250,000 estate works out to $1,554. Other estate-related court fees exist too, such as $50 for exemplification of letters, $30 for a certified copy and $20 for a search.

The fee is set from the inventory at the time of application. If the estate is later valued lower, the representative may apply for a refund of the overpayment, and if higher, an additional amount must be paid on the difference. When the fee must be paid, and whether it can come from estate funds or be deferred if the estate has no cash yet, depends on the registry's practice, so confirm with the Probate Registry or a lawyer before you pay personally. Keep records of anything you pay, because you will later need to explain how the estate was handled.