Canada’s Best Online Wills & Kits

In today’s digital age, nearly every aspect of our lives has moved online. It is no surprise that estate planning has followed suit, with online wills emerging as a popular option for Canadians. Online wills offer a convenient, cost-effective, and accessible alternative to traditional wills. As you consider the advantages of creating an online will, it’s essential to understand the legal framework, steps to create one, and how to ensure its validity. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the world of online wills in Canada, helping you make an informed decision for your estate planning needs.

Online Wills: The Legal Framework in Canada

In Canada, each province and territory has its legislation governing the creation and validity of wills. While the specifics may vary, most jurisdictions follow the same general principles. For a will to be valid in Canada, it must meet the following requirements:

1. The testator (person creating the will) must be at least 18 years old.
2. The will must be in writing, either typed or handwritten.
3. The testator must sign the will in the presence of at least two witnesses.
4. The witnesses must also sign the will, confirming that they witnessed the testator’s signature.

Online wills are legally recognized in Canada as long as they meet these requirements. Many online will platforms guide users through the process, ensuring that the final document adheres to the appropriate provincial or territorial laws.

The Benefits of Online Wills

1. Convenience: Online will platforms offer a user-friendly experience, allowing you to create a legally binding will from the comfort of your home. You can complete the process in your own time and at your own pace, without the need for in-person meetings or consultations.
2. Cost-effective: Traditional wills can be costly, with legal fees for drafting a will ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Online will platforms often provide a more cost-effective solution, with prices starting at just a fraction of traditional wills’ costs.
3. Accessibility: Online will platforms are accessible to a broad audience, as they typically offer templates and tools suitable for various family structures, financial situations, and estate planning needs.
4. Flexibility: As your life circumstances change, updating your online will can be done with ease. Most platforms allow you to make changes to your will and generate a new, updated version to be signed and witnessed according to the legal requirements.
5. Security: Many online will platforms use encryption and secure servers to store your information, ensuring the privacy and protection of your personal data.

Precautions and Best Practices

While online wills offer many benefits, there are precautions you should take to ensure that your will is valid and accurately reflects your wishes.

1. Choose a reputable platform: Do thorough research and select a reputable online will platform with a proven track record. Look for reviews, testimonials, and accreditation to ensure the platform is reliable and secure.
2. Understand your province or territory’s laws: Familiarize yourself with your jurisdiction’s specific requirements for wills. Most online will platforms tailor their services to each province or territory, but it’s essential to double-check and ensure your will complies with local laws.
3. Have witnesses present when signing: Though the process of creating an online will is digital, signing the will must still be done in the presence of at least two witnesses, as required by Canadian law.
4. Store your will securely: Keep your signed and witnessed will in a safe and secure location, such as a safety deposit box or a fireproof safe at home. Additionally, inform your executor and loved ones of its whereabouts.
5. Consider professional advice: If you have a complex estate or particular concerns, it may be beneficial to seek professional legal advice. Online will platforms are suitable for straightforward estate planning needs, but more complicated situations may require personalized guidance from an estate lawyer.
6. Review your will regularly: Life circumstances change, and it’s crucial to keep your will up to date. Experts recommend reviewing your will every three to five years, or whenever significant life events occur, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.
7. Designate a capable executor: Choose a trustworthy and capable executor to administer your estate. The executor’s role is crucial, as they will be responsible for carrying out your wishes, managing your assets, and distributing them to your beneficiaries. Ensure your chosen executor is willing and able to take on this responsibility.
8. Communicate your wishes: Have open and honest discussions with your loved ones about your estate planning and end-of-life wishes. This communication helps ensure that everyone is on the same page and can prevent potential conflicts or misunderstandings after you pass away.

Online wills have emerged as a popular estate planning option for Canadians, providing convenience, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility. By understanding the legal framework, following best practices, and taking necessary precautions, you can create a legally binding and secure online will that accurately reflects your wishes.

As you embark on your estate planning journey, keep in mind that online wills are best suited for straightforward situations. If you have a complex estate or require specialized advice, it may be wise to consult with an estate lawyer. By taking the time to plan and prepare, you can ensure that your loved ones are taken care of, and your legacy is preserved according to your wishes.