Why a Will?
If you don't decide, the government will
Over half of Canadian adults don't have a will. That means the province decides who gets their assets, who raises their children, and how their estate is handled.
56%
of Canadians have no will
71%
of parents with young kids have no will
From $29
to create your legal documents
20 min
to complete the process
Who needs a will?
Short answer: every adult. But these groups especially:
Parents with minor children
A will is the only way to name a guardian for your kids. Without one, the court decides who raises them.
Homeowners & property owners
Your home is likely your biggest asset. A will ensures it goes to the people you choose, not a default formula.
Newcomers to Canada
Canadian laws differ from your home country. A Canadian will ensures your assets in Canada are handled according to your wishes.
Common-law partners
In most Canadian provinces, common-law partners have NO automatic inheritance rights. Without a will, your partner could receive nothing.
Small business owners
A will can include succession plans for your business. Without one, your business may be forced into probate limbo.
Anyone with assets or dependents
Bank accounts, investments, vehicles, pets — if you own anything or anyone depends on you, you need a will.
What happens if you die without a will in Canada?
Dying without a will is called dying "intestate." Provincial Succession Law Reform Act determines how your estate is divided:
Married with no children
Your spouse inherits everything.
Married with children, estate under $350,000
Your spouse receives the first $350,000 (preferential share). Anything above is split between spouse and children.
Married with one child, estate over $350,000
Spouse gets $350,000 + half the remainder. Child gets the other half.
Married with multiple children, estate over $350,000
Spouse gets $350,000 + one-third of remainder. Children split two-thirds equally.
Common-law partner
Your partner receives nothing under most provincial intestacy law. Only legally married spouses are recognized.
The court also appoints an estate administrator (not someone you chose), which means higher costs, longer timelines, and decisions made by strangers.
"I don't need a will because..."
"I'm too young"
If you have any assets, a car, savings, or dependents, you need a will. Accidents don't check your age.
"I don't have enough assets"
Even a small estate without a will means court involvement, delays, and costs for your family. A will simplifies everything.
"It's too expensive"
Not anymore. Livewill lets you create a will from just $29. A lawyer typically charges $500-1,500+.
"My spouse will get everything anyway"
Not necessarily. Provincial intestacy rules split assets between spouse and children. And common-law partners get nothing.
"It's too complicated"
Livewill's guided process takes about 20 minutes. Plain language questions, no legal jargon.
Protect your family in 20 minutes
Start now and create your will online.
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