Will in Nova Scotia
Create your Will online, guided step-by-step. In Nova Scotia, wills are governed by the Wills Act. Two witnesses required who must sign in the testator's presence. Our templates ensure your will meets all Nova Scotia legal requirements.
Nova Scotia Legal Context
Last Will & Testament Law in Nova Scotia
Understanding the legal framework for your will in NS.
In Nova Scotia, wills are governed by the Wills Act. The legal document is known as a "Will." Must be 19 years of age or older (age of majority in NS) to create a valid will. Two witnesses required who must sign in the testator's presence. Nova Scotia 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 Nova Scotia
Key requirements for a valid will in NS.
- ✓Must be 19 years of age or older (age of majority in NS)
- ✓Must be of sound mind (testamentary capacity)
- ✓Two witnesses required who must sign in the testator's presence
- ✓Must comply with the Wills Act
- ✓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 Nova Scotia
How It Works
Create Your Will in Nova Scotia
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 Nova Scotia requirements under the Wills Act.
Customise Your Will
Name beneficiaries, choose an executor, and add specific bequests. Our system ensures compliance with Nova Scotia law.
Review & Download
Preview your completed Will, make any edits, then download your PDF — ready to print and sign.
FAQ
Last Will & Testament in Nova Scotia — Common Questions
Is an online will legally valid in Nova Scotia?
Yes. In Nova Scotia, a will is valid as long as it meets the requirements of the Wills Act: the testator must be 19 years of age or older (age of majority in ns), is of sound mind, the will is in writing, and it is properly witnessed. Two witnesses required who must sign in the testator's presence. 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 Nova Scotia?
Two witnesses required who must sign in the testator's presence. 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 Nova Scotia?
Yes, Nova Scotia requires that your will be signed in the presence of two qualifying witnesses. Unlike some provinces, Nova Scotia does not recognise holograph (handwritten, unwitnessed) wills.
What happens if I die without a will in Nova Scotia?
If you die intestate (without a will) in Nova Scotia, the Wills Act 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 Nova Scotia?
With Livewill, you can create your Will for free. A lawyer in Nova Scotia 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 Nova Scotia
Explore our full suite of estate planning tools for Nova Scotia residents.
Will
Create your Will online, compliant with the Wills Act. Free and guided.
Enduring Power of Attorney
Set up a Enduring Power of Attorney and Personal Directive to protect your financial and personal affairs.
Expat Will
Living abroad? Protect your Nova Scotia assets with an Expat Will that complies with local legislation.
Personal Directive
Document your healthcare wishes in a Personal Directive so your medical preferences are honoured.
Farewell Planning
Plan your memorial or celebration of life in Nova Scotia. Document every detail for your family.
Digital Vault
Securely store your Nova Scotia estate documents, passwords, and digital assets in one encrypted location.
Ready to create your will in Nova Scotia?
Start now — create your legal documents online with Livewill.