Cedar Wills
Cedar Wills is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. The templates and information here are a self-help tool — not a substitute for advice from a licensed lawyer.

Estates & Wills Blog

Browse all Ontario will and estate planning articles in one place. Start with a category or jump straight into the latest posts.

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Latest articles

Getting Started

Do You Need a Will in Ontario? 7 Signs It’s Time

Not sure if you need a will in Ontario? Here are seven life situations that mean it’s time to make one — and what happens if you don’t.

Estate Administration

Power of Attorney in Ontario: Why You Need One

A Power of Attorney matters while you’re still alive. Here’s how the two types work in Ontario, why you need both, and what happens if you don’t have them.

Parents & Guardians

Making a Will After Having a Baby: An Ontario Parent’s Guide

A new baby changes everything — including what you need in a will. Here’s what Ontario parents should think about before they sign.

Getting Started

How to Make a Legal Will in Ontario: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn the exact legal requirements to make a valid Will in Ontario. Discover how to draft, sign, and witness your Last Will and Testament.

Lawyer vs Online

Do I Really Need a Lawyer to Make a Will in Ontario?

Find out if you need to hire a lawyer to draft your Will in Ontario. Learn the differences between online wills, holographic wills, and lawyer-drafted wills.

Estate Administration

What Happens if You Die Without a Will in Ontario?

Dying intestate in Ontario means the government decides who gets your assets. Discover the rules of intestacy and how it negatively impacts your family.

Estate Administration

Naming an Executor in Ontario: Duties and Responsibilities

Choosing an Executor is the most critical part of your Will. Understand the duties, responsibilities, and risks of being an Estate Trustee in Ontario.

Legal Validity

Holographic Wills in Ontario: What You Need to Know

Are handwritten wills legal in Ontario? Learn about the strict requirements for a Holographic Will and why they often cause probate nightmares.

Parents & Guardians

How to Choose a Guardian for Your Minor Children

Naming a guardian in your Will is the most important decision parents will make. Here is our guide on how to choose the right guardian in Ontario.

Lawyer vs Online

Online Wills vs. Lawyer Drafted Wills: Which is Better?

Compare the costs, benefits, and risks of using an online will platform versus hiring a traditional estate lawyer in Ontario.

Legal Validity

Who Can Be a Witness for a Will in Ontario?

Your Will is completely invalid if not witnessed correctly. Learn the strict rules regarding who can and cannot witness a Last Will and Testament.

Getting Started

Updating Your Will: When and How to Make Changes

A Will is a living document. Discover the major life events that require you to update your Ontario Will immediately.

Estate Administration

Estate Taxes and Probate Fees in Ontario Explained

Learn how the Estate Administration Tax (Probate) works in Ontario, how much it costs, and legal strategies to minimize the burden on your beneficiaries.