What is Probate?

"Probate" is the recognition by the provincial court of the validity of your Will and the appointment of the person named as your Executor. Granting of the "letters probate" is notice to the public that your Will complies with the basic formal requirements and that the Will was not being challenged at the time of application.

Reducing Probate Fees

In some provinces, the Executor must apply to the court for "letters probate" in order to begin administering an estate. These fees are payable to the provincial government based on the value of certain assets in your estate. There have been increases over the years in provincial probate fees. There are ways to arrange your affairs to reduce these probate fees. Again, estate planning helps identify these issues and reduce any negative impact on your estate.

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Estate planning need not be complicated or expensive. First, who knows better than you what you want done with the things that you've worked all your life to build. Second, seek the professional advice of an expert to guide you on the financial and legal implications to ensure that you get the most favourable tax treatment possible.

If you do not have a Will, or if your Will has not been updated recently, perhaps it is time to meet with a lawyer and get the job done. Take the first step; call Ontario March of Dimes toll-free at 1-800-263-3463 x 383 for a free copy of "My Personal Organizer" - a handy estate planning tool.

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Editors: These articles are for use in Ontario only