Probate: The Complete Guide for Canadians
Probate is a legal procedure that verifies a Will and confirms the appointment of an Executor to administer the deceased’s estate. In Canada, the process is governed by provincial and territorial laws, making the requirements and fees vary across the country. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how this process works in each province and territory in Canada.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Probate in Canada
How the process works British Columbia
How the process works in Alberta
How the process works in Saskatchewan
How the process works in Manitoba
How the process works in Ontario
How the process works in Quebec
How the process works in New Brunswick
How the process in Prince Edward Island
How the process works in Nova Scotia
How the process works in Newfoundland and Labrador
How the process works in the Northwest Territories
How the process works in Yukon
How the process works in Nunavut
Introduction to Probate in Canada
Probate serves as a way to ensure that the Executor is following the deceased’s wishes as outlined in their Will. It’s a critical step in administering an estate, helping to prevent fraud, and protecting the rights of the beneficiaries.
How Probate works in British Columbia
In British Columbia, the process involves submitting an application to the Supreme Court. Fees are calculated based on the gross value of the estate and can range from CAD $208 to $6,658 or more.
How Probate works in Alberta
In Alberta, the Surrogate Court handles probate applications. Fees are set at $35 for estates under $10,000, up to $525 for estates over $250,000.
How the process works in Saskatchewan
The process in Saskatchewan involves applying to the Court of Queen’s Bench. Fees are determined by the estate’s value, ranging from $7 to $7,000 or more.
How the process works in Manitoba
Manitoba’s Court of Queen’s Bench supervises the process. The fees are based on the estate’s value, with costs ranging from $70 to $7,000.
How the process works in Ontario
In Ontario, probate fees are among the highest in Canada. The application is submitted to the Superior Court of Justice, and the fees are calculated based on the estate’s value, typically 1.5% of the total.
How the process works in Quebec
Quebec’s process differs from other provinces, as probate is not always necessary. Notarial Wills do not require this process, while others are dealt with by the Superior Court. Fees vary widely.
How the process works in New Brunswick
New Brunswick’s process involves applying to the Court of Queen’s Bench. Fees are based on the estate’s value and can range from $25 to $5,000.
How the process works in Prince Edward Island
PEI’s process is handled by the Supreme Court, with fees ranging from $50 to $4,000, depending on the estate’s value.
How the process works in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia’s process is overseen by the Supreme Court. Fees are calculated based on the estate’s gross value, ranging from $85 to $33,333 or more.
How the process works in Newfoundland and Labrador
In Newfoundland and Labrador, the Supreme Court handles the process for all applications. Fees are based on the estate’s value, ranging from $85 to $400.
How the process works in Northwest Territories
The Supreme Court of the Northwest Territories oversees the process, with fees based on a tiered system ranging from $25 to $400.
How the process works in Yukon
In Yukon, the process applications are made to the Supreme Court. Fees are calculated on the estate’s gross value and can range from $140 to $1,400 or more.
Nunavut’s Court of Justice handles the process, and the fees range from $25 to $400, based on the value of the estate.
Nunavut’s Court of Justice handles the process, and the fees range from $25 to $400, based on the value of the estate.
Understanding how the process works in Canada is essential for anyone dealing with estate planning or administration. The process can be complex, but this guide serves as a foundational resource for Canadians navigating the world of probate.
