Can I Write My Own Will in Ontario?

February 23, 2025

Written by Ron Cooke, President & Founder of Strategic Wealth Protection Partners in Ontario

Can you write your own will in Ontario without a lawyer?

Yes, in Ontario, you can legally write your own will without a lawyer.

A will must be in writing, signed by you, and witnessed by two people who are not beneficiaries or spouses of beneficiaries. While a DIY will is valid if it meets legal requirements, mistakes can lead to costly disputes or make your will invalid.

If your estate is complex or you have specific wishes, consulting an estate planner or lawyer can help ensure your will is legally sound and protects your loved ones.

Do Ontario wills need to be notarized?

No, wills in Ontario do not need to be notarized to be legally valid.

However, they must be signed in the presence of two witnesses who also sign the document. If you want to avoid delays or challenges during probate, you may consider preparing a self-proving will, which includes an affidavit of execution signed by a witness and notarized. (+)

This can make it easier for your executor to administer your estate without needing witness testimony.

Are free or online will kits legal in Ontario?

Yes, free or online will kits can be legally valid in Ontario if they meet the formal requirements of a will: they must be in writing, signed, and properly witnessed.

However, online will kits often use generic templates that may not fully reflect Ontario laws or your unique situation. They are best suited for simple estates, but for anything more complex—like blended families, businesses, or specific legacy wishes—seeking professional guidance is strongly recommended to avoid legal pitfalls.

Are handwritten wills legal in Ontario?

Yes, handwritten wills, known as holographic wills, are legal in Ontario and do not require witnesses.

To be valid, the will must be entirely in your own handwriting and signed. While this might seem convenient, handwritten wills can be easily challenged, misinterpreted, or even lost. If you choose this route, be sure your wording is clear and that your wishes are unmistakable.

A professionally drafted will is always a safer option to ensure your estate is handled as you intend.

What is the best way to get started writing a will?

The best way to start writing your will is to first take inventory of your assets, debts, and beneficiaries.

Decide who will act as your executor—the person responsible for carrying out your wishes. Consider how you want to distribute your estate and whether you need to name guardians for minor children.

Once you have a clear plan, you can either draft your own will using a trusted template or work with a professional to ensure everything is structured correctly and legally.

What should I do before I write my will?

Before writing your will, take time to organize your financial and personal affairs.

Make a list of your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, investments, and personal belongings. Consider your family dynamics and any specific wishes you have for your estate. It’s also important to think about naming an executor, powers of attorney, and guardians if you have children.

Consulting with an estate planner can help you make informed decisions and avoid unintended consequences. A well-prepared will brings peace of mind, knowing that your loved ones are protected.

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.

Schedule a Call

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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.

Speak with Ron