Overview
Parents of minor children, homeowners, business owners, blended families and people with special beneficiary arrangements may benefit from early planning.
Consider reviewing a will after marriage, separation, the birth of a child, a major asset purchase or another significant family change.
Why execution formalities matter
Ontario’s Succession Law Reform Act contains writing and execution rules and recognizes certain holograph wills. Witnesses, beneficiaries and signing method can affect validity or gifts.
A will may not govern every asset
Joint property, designated-beneficiary plans, corporate interests, trusts and foreign assets may require separate analysis. Tax and family-law obligations can also affect an estate.
Life changes and estate administration
Review a will after marriage, separation, divorce, a birth or death, a major asset purchase, relocation or a business change. Informal handwritten amendments can create uncertainty and should not be made without advice.
An estate certificate may be required depending on the assets and institutions involved. If a certificate is issued, Estate Administration Tax may apply under Ontario rules.