Will in British Columbia
Create your Will online, guided step-by-step. In British Columbia, wills are governed by the Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA). Two witnesses required; WESA allows the court to validate wills that do not meet formal requirements. Our templates ensure your will meets all British Columbia legal requirements.
British Columbia Legal Context
Last Will & Testament Law in British Columbia
Understanding the legal framework for your will in BC.
In British Columbia, wills are governed by the Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA). The legal document is known as a "Will." Must be 16 years of age or older to create a valid will. Two witnesses required; WESA allows the court to validate wills that do not meet formal requirements. British Columbia does not recognise holograph (handwritten) wills — your will must be properly witnessed to be valid. Notarization is not required but can help prevent challenges.
Requirements
What You Need in British Columbia
Key requirements for a valid will in BC.
- ✓Must be 16 years of age or older
- ✓Must be of sound mind (testamentary capacity)
- ✓Two witnesses required; WESA allows the court to validate wills that do not meet formal requirements
- ✓Must comply with the Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA)
- ✓Will must be in writing (typed or printed)
- ✓Testator must sign the will in the presence of both witnesses
- ✓Holograph (handwritten) wills are NOT valid in British Columbia
How It Works
Create Your Will in British Columbia
A simple, guided process — done in minutes.
Answer a Few Questions
Tell us about yourself, your family, and your assets. We tailor your Will to British Columbia requirements under the Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA).
Customise Your Will
Name beneficiaries, choose an executor, and add specific bequests. Our system ensures compliance with British Columbia law.
Review & Download
Preview your completed Will, make any edits, then download your PDF — ready to print and sign.
FAQ
Last Will & Testament in British Columbia — Common Questions
Is an online will legally valid in British Columbia?
Yes. In British Columbia, a will is valid as long as it meets the requirements of the Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA): the testator must be 16 years of age or older, is of sound mind, the will is in writing, and it is properly witnessed. Two witnesses required; WESA allows the court to validate wills that do not meet formal requirements. Whether a will is created online or with a lawyer, the same legal standards apply.
How many witnesses do I need for a will in British Columbia?
Two witnesses required; WESA allows the court to validate wills that do not meet formal requirements. Witnesses should be adults who are not named as beneficiaries in the will and are not married to a beneficiary. Both witnesses must be present at the same time and watch you sign.
Do I need witnesses for my will in British Columbia?
Yes, British Columbia requires that your will be signed in the presence of two qualifying witnesses. Unlike some provinces, British Columbia does not recognise holograph (handwritten, unwitnessed) wills.
What happens if I die without a will in British Columbia?
If you die intestate (without a will) in British Columbia, the Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA) dictates how your estate is distributed. Typically, your spouse and children inherit according to a statutory formula, which may not match your wishes. Creating a will ensures you decide who gets what.
How much does it cost to make a will in British Columbia?
With Livewill, you can create your Will for free. A lawyer in British Columbia typically charges $300–$1,000+ for a simple will. Livewill's guided process produces a legally compliant document at no cost.
More Services
Other Services in British Columbia
Explore our full suite of estate planning tools for British Columbia residents.
Will
Create your Will online, compliant with the Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA). Free and guided.
Enduring Power of Attorney
Set up a Enduring Power of Attorney and Representation Agreement to protect your financial and personal affairs.
Expat Will
Living abroad? Protect your British Columbia assets with an Expat Will that complies with local legislation.
Advance Directive
Document your healthcare wishes in a Advance Directive so your medical preferences are honoured.
Farewell Planning
Plan your memorial or celebration of life in British Columbia. Document every detail for your family.
Digital Vault
Securely store your British Columbia estate documents, passwords, and digital assets in one encrypted location.
Ready to create your will in British Columbia?
Start now — create your legal documents online with Livewill.