Written by Ron Cooke, President & Founder of Strategic Wealth Protection Partners in Ontario
How Much Does a Will Cost in Ontario?
The cost of a will in Ontario varies depending on complexity and the lawyer’s fees.
However, in Ontario the cost of a will typically ranges from $300 to $1,500+ for a basic will and more for comprehensive estate planning.
A more complex will for someone with multiple properties or cross-border assets, can range from $2,500 to $5,000+, depending on the complexity and legal expertise required.
For business owners, a will can range from $500 to $10,000+, depending on factors like corporate structures, shareholder agreements, trusts, and cross-border considerations. If complex succession planning strategies are involved, costs can be even higher due to the need for specialized legal and financial advice.
Since a poorly structured will can lead to unintended tax consequences and legal complications, it’s essential to plan carefully.
Read the full post for more on how to protect your wealth and avoid the costly Ontario “death tax.” Or get started with a Living Estate Plan.
Table of Contents
- Factors That Affect the Cost of a Will in Ontario
- Do You Need a Lawyer to Make a Will in Ontario?
- Comparing Online Wills and Lawyer-Drafted Wills
- Additional Costs to Consider When Making a Will
- How to Reduce the Cost of Making a Will
- What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Ontario?
- Executor Fees and Responsibilities in Ontario
- When Is Probate Required and How Much Does It Cost?
- The Real Cost of Not Having a Will
- Q & A For Business Owners
- Q & A For Cottage Owners
- General Questions
Factors That Affect the Cost of a Will in Ontario
The cost of a will in Ontario depends on several key factors: the complexity of your estate, whether you use a lawyer or DIY tools, and the level of professional advice required.
A simple will might cost $0 to $200 using online templates, while more comprehensive, lawyer-prepared estate plans typically range from $300 to $1,500 or more. The more assets, family dynamics, or tax considerations involved, the more important it is to work with an experienced estate planner to avoid costly mistakes.
Cost Breakdown of Wills in Ontario
| Type of Will / Situation | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| DIY or Online Will | $0 to $200 | Using an online template or writing a will by hand will cost the least, but isn’t a good option for anyone with substantial assets. |
| Basic Will | $300 – $1,500+ | For individuals with straightforward assets and beneficiaries. May be a standalone will or part of a basic estate plan. |
| Complex Will (Multiple Properties / Cross-Border Assets) | $2,500 – $5,000+ | Designed for individuals with considerable complexities such as real estate in multiple jurisdictions, foreign assets, or blended family considerations. |
| Business Owner’s Will | $500 – $10,000+ | Involves corporate structures, shareholder agreements, trusts, and succession planning. Cost depends heavily on complexity and legal coordination. |
| High-Net-Worth / Comprehensive Estate Plan | $5,000 – $15,000+ | May include multiple trusts, tax planning, insurance structuring, and coordination with financial professionals. |
SWPP has a unique pricing structure for its Living Estate Plan. Learn more about SWPP’s Living Estate Plan pricing and process.
Do You Need a Lawyer to Make a Will in Ontario?
No, a lawyer is not legally required—but if your goal is clarity, protection, and peace of mind, professional help is priceless.
Lawyers and estate planning professionals ensure your will is legally binding, meets Ontario’s formal legal requirements, and is tailored to your specific situation.
Comparing Online Wills and Lawyer-Drafted Wills
Online wills can be cost-effective for very simple situations, like single individuals with no children or real estate.
But they often miss critical nuances like probate avoidance, tax planning, and legal enforceability. Lawyer-drafted wills may cost more upfront—but they’re customized, compliant, and built to protect your legacy, not just fill in the blanks.
Additional Costs to Consider When Making a Will
Creating a will is just the beginning. You may also need:
- Notarization or witnessing fees
- Executor compensation, which can be a percentage of your estate
- Ongoing legal updates as your life, assets, and family evolve Think beyond the document—it’s about creating a complete and lasting estate plan.
🧾 Additional Estate Planning Costs to Consider
Creating a will is just the beginning. To build a complete and effective estate plan, you may also need to budget for the following:
| Item | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Notarization or Witnessing Fees | $25 – $100 per document | While Ontario doesn’t require notarization for a will, some documents (e.g., affidavits or POAs) may need a notary or commissioner of oaths. |
| Executor Compensation | ~5% of the estate value (set by law) | Executors are entitled to fair compensation under Ontario law. This can be negotiated or waived, but often applies to time and effort spent. |
| Ongoing Legal Updates | $100 – $500+ per update | Life changes like marriage, divorce, births, or new assets may require you to update your will to keep it valid and relevant. |
| Power of Attorney Documents | $150 – $500 each (if done by a lawyer) | Separate documents for property and personal care are often recommended as part of a complete plan. |
| Tax and Succession Planning | $500 – $5,000+ (varies widely) | For larger or more complex estates, legal and financial advice may be needed to reduce taxes (like Ontario’s estate administration tax) or ensure smooth transfers. |
SWPP has a unique pricing structure for its Living Estate Plan. Learn more about SWPP’s Living Estate Plan pricing and process.
How to Reduce the Cost of Making a Will
One of the best ways to lower costs is to come prepared: have a full list of your assets, liabilities, and intended beneficiaries before meeting with an estate lawyer.
Keep your instructions clear and organized.
And most importantly—plan early, before health or urgency forces rushed decisions that often lead to higher legal costs.
What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Ontario?
If you die without a will, Ontario’s intestacy laws decide who inherits your estate—and it may not be who you expect.
Common-law partners get nothing by default, minor children may receive assets through the courts, and no one has authority to act until the court appoints an estate trustee. It’s expensive, time-consuming, and emotionally draining for your family.
Executor Fees and Responsibilities in Ontario
An executor (or estate trustee) is responsible for carrying out your will, settling debts, filing taxes, and distributing your estate.
In Ontario, executors are entitled to fair compensation, typically up to 5% of the estate value, depending on complexity. Choose someone trustworthy, organized, and prepared for the legal and emotional weight of the job.
When Is Probate Required and How Much Does It Cost?
Probate is required in Ontario when assets are solely in the deceased’s name and no automatic beneficiary is named.
The probate fee is 0.5% on the first $50,000 and 1.5% on everything above that. With proper planning, we can often reduce or avoid probate altogether—saving your estate thousands in fees.
Ontario Probate Fee Calculator
The Real Cost of Not Having a Will
The real cost of not having a will isn’t just financial—it’s emotional.
Families are left without guidance, legal processes are delayed, taxes increase, and loved ones often fight over what you “would have wanted.”
You’ve worked too hard to leave your legacy to chance. Because your family deserves clarity and peace, book your estate planning session with us today and let’s put your plan in place.
Common Questions about Wills & Estate Planning
Q & A For Business Owners
How does an estate lawyer help with the estate planning process for a complex estate involving business assets?
An estate lawyer ensures your business succession is clearly documented, legally binding, and tax-efficient. They help preserve the value of your business and protect your family’s financial future when you’re no longer at the helm.
What are the legal obligations when creating a will for a business owner in Ontario?
You must properly name successors, outline share transfers, and address shareholder agreements. If this isn’t done right, your business could be frozen or sold off—causing unnecessary tax and loss of control.
How can tax planning be integrated into a more comprehensive estate plan for business owners?
Tax planning helps reduce capital gains, probate, and estate taxes by structuring trusts, share freezes, and corporate reorganizations. Business owners lose more to tax than they realize. Because your life’s work deserves to stay in the family, book your estate planning session today.
Q & A For Cottage Owners
What should I consider when including my cottage in my own will?
You’ll need to consider capital gains tax, shared ownership among children, and future maintenance responsibilities. Without proper planning, a beloved family cottage can become a source of conflict or financial burden.
How can a financial advisor assist in the estate planning process for cottage owners?
We help assess tax liabilities, plan ownership transitions, and create a strategy that avoids probate and family disputes. With the right tools, your cottage can become a lasting legacy—not a liability.
What are the legal documents required for passing on a cottage to family members?
At a minimum, you’ll need a legally binding will, and often a trust agreement, co-ownership contract, or corporate structure. These documents ensure smooth and fair transitions—and can save your family thousands in taxes and legal fees.
General Questions
Do I need a lawyer to make a will in Ontario?
Legally, no—but if you want your will to be clear, complete, and respected, using a lawyer or estate planner is strongly recommended. The risk of DIY wills isn’t just legal—it’s personal.
Do I need an estate lawyer to create a legal document like a will in Ontario?
You can create a valid will without a lawyer, but only a professional can help you avoid probate traps, tax mistakes, and family conflict. Peace of mind is worth the investment.
How much does it cost to have a lawyer draft a will in Ontario?
Fees range from $500 to $1,500+ depending on complexity. But the cost of fixing a poorly written will after death can be ten times higher—and the emotional toll can’t be measured in dollars.
What is the role of the law society in regulating estate lawyers and their fees?
The Law Society of Ontario oversees all licensed lawyers, ensuring ethical conduct and fair fee practices. You can verify a lawyer’s credentials or file a complaint if needed—protecting you as the client.
What are the consequences of not having a will?
Without a will, your estate is distributed by Ontario’s default laws—not your wishes. This can mean higher taxes, court delays, and emotional strain for your loved ones.
What is the cheapest way to make a legal will in Ontario?
DIY kits or online services can cost under $100—but they come with major risks if done incorrectly. If your estate involves property, children, or investments, a low-cost will today can create a high-cost mess tomorrow.
What is the normal fee for an executor of a will in Ontario?
Executors are typically paid up to 5% of the estate’s value, depending on complexity. This includes managing debts, taxes, assets, and distributions—and it’s often more work than most people expect.
A Will Isn’t Enough to Protect Your Family’s Inheritance
Writing a will is a crucial step, but it’s just the beginning.
A will only states who gets what, but it doesn’t help you minimize estate taxes, avoid probate fees, or prevent legal delays.
In Ontario, probate fees (Estate Administration Tax) and capital gains taxes on properties can take a significant portion of your estate. If you own multiple properties, the financial burden could be even greater, forcing your loved ones to sell assets just to cover unexpected costs.
Without proper estate planning, your family could receive far less than you intended. The good news? There are strategies to protect your wealth—but they must be set up before it’s too late.
Keep Your Wealth in the Family with Proper Planning
A well-structured estate plan does more than just pass on your assets—it ensures your wealth stays in the family.
By using tools like trusts, life insurance, and gifting strategies, you can:
✅ Reduce or eliminate probate fees
✅ Minimize capital gains taxes on real estate
✅ Prevent legal disputes and family conflicts
Without these safeguards, your loved ones may face delays, unnecessary legal battles, and financial strain. A strong estate plan gives you peace of mind, knowing that your family will be cared for and your legacy will be protected exactly as you intended.
Schedule a Living Estate Plan Consultation
Planning your legacy is about more than numbers—it’s about ensuring your family remembers you and your values are honoured for many years to come.
Estate planning and trusts can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. That’s why we’re here.
With our simple, 5-Step Living Estate Plan, we make the process easy, helping you create a comprehensive estate plan or trust that protects your assets from taxes and probate fees while preserving your legacy. Tools like The Final Word Journal capture your story, wishes, and essential details like accounts and end-of-life plans, ensuring your family has clarity and comfort.
Take the first step today—schedule a consultation call and give your family the ultimate gift: peace of mind and the assurance they were always your priority.
Read More
If you’re writing a will, you may find these articles helpful:
- Is a Living Trust Better than a Will in Canada?
- How Much Does a Will Cost in Ontario?
- How to Write a Will in Ontario
About the Author
RON COOKE, PRESIDENT & FOUNDER OF STRATEGIC WEALTH PROTECTION PARTNERS
With over 30 years in financial services, I’ve seen the challenges families face when a loved one passes—lost assets, unnecessary taxes, and emotional stress. That’s why I created the Living Estate Plan, a comprehensive process to protect assets, eliminate estate and probate fees, and create legacies that are remembered for many years to come.
This plan ensures your family receives not just your wealth, but a meaningful reminder of your care and love. Tools like The Final Word Journal capture your story, wishes, and essential details, offering clarity and comfort during difficult times.
Your final gift should be more than money—it should be peace of mind, cherished memories, and an organized estate.
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