Ask a Wills Expert Archives

Daughter writes in asking about how to avoid probate in Canada for her mother's estate

How to avoid probate fees in Canada

Avoiding probate fees in Canada involves implementing strategies such as using beneficiary designations, joint ownership, and establishing trusts to...

How to avoid probate fees in Canada

A niece takes care of her uncle as power of attorney, is not his estate trustee.

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When does the role of power of attorney end—and estate trustee begin?

There are various roles for estate planning, including the POA and the estate trustee. Find out the difference between...

When does the role of power of attorney end—and estate trustee begin?

Estate Planning

How important are wills and estate planning for Canadians?

Learn from an estate administrator exactly what Canadian families should do right now to avoid headaches later.

How important are wills and estate planning for Canadians?

A middle aged woman sits by a window in a cafe

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Can an executor borrow money to cover probate costs?

Executors have a few options when the estate has outstanding bills and no cash to cover probate fees. Find...

Can an executor borrow money to cover probate costs?

A mother and daughter are seated on a couch discussing plans for a disabled beneficiary trust

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Estate planning and trusts for a beneficiary with a disability

When seeking advice that may involve multiple disciplines, including estate planning for a beneficiary with a disability, what type...

Estate planning and trusts for a beneficiary with a disability

Two women looking at their wills, deciding whether or not to name each other on the registered accounts

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Is it better to list a beneficiary on registered investments or have the account go to the estate?

When is it better to have beneficiaries listed on investment accounts versus leaving everything to the estate?

Is it better to list a beneficiary on registered investments or have the account go to the estate?

A toddler plays with a doll house to symbolize owning a home, after inheriting it from the grandparents.

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Can I leave a house to minor children?

When preparing your estate plan, does it make sense to leave property to minor-aged children?

Can I leave a house to minor children?

two sisters raising a glass of red wine as they play Monopoly and eat pizza in their kitchen.

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Capital gains when selling property to family

If you sell a property to a relative for a bargain price, does that mean you pay less tax...

Capital gains when selling property to family

Financial Planning

Video: How to split an inheritance

MoneySense expert Bruce Sellery answers viewer questions about splitting an inheritance and getting started in the stock market.

Video: How to split an inheritance