Before making a will

Before you draw up your will, it is a good idea to make a written inventory of:

  • your property (house, cottage, savings bonds);
  • your debts (mortgages, loans or other debts).

If the inventory is complete, up-to-date and dated, it will be useful to the people who will settle your estate.

Tax and other issues

You should consult a tax specialist if:

  • you own property of a certain value, such as a house or company;
  • you believe the transfer of certain property, such as a registered retirement savings plan (RRSP), might have a fiscal impact.

Complex successions

We suggest that you consult a legal advisor if you think the settlement of your succession will be complicated, for example because of:

  • the value of the property bequeathed;
  • your desire to protect young children or a person suffering from a chronic disease;
  • any other reason.

Last wishes

You may include your last wishes in your will. In other words, you may specify:

  • how your body is to be disposed of after your death, for example by burial or cremation;
  • your funeral arrangements.

However, a will is normally read after the person’s funeral, so you should also record your last wishes in a document that can be read immediately after your death. You can also discuss them with your family.

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