When it comes to your final signed Will in Canada, there are essential steps to follow for its storage and sharing. Here's a concise and organized guide:
Single Original Copy
Regardless of your location in Canada, it's important to note that only the original signed physical copy of your Will is legally valid. Multiple distributed copies are not recognized.
Secure and Accessible Location
It's imperative to store your Will in a secure and easily accessible location.
Ensure your selected executor and guardian are informed about the Will's location for swift access.
If you have additional estate documents or end-of-life planning materials, make sure their location is accessible to your executor(s) as well.
Content Disclosure
You have the option to disclose or keep the contents of your Will undisclosed.
If you prefer confidentiality, your Will can be placed in a sealed envelope that may only be opened upon your passing. Regardless of disclosure, it's advisable for your executor to have access to both your Will and its contents. This ensures they understand your final wishes directly from you.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Will is safely stored and that your executor is well-prepared to carry out your final wishes when the time comes.
Registering your will on CanadaWillRegistry.org also helps to ensure your executor knows where it is. So if they forget or you forget to tell them, your executor can perform a search to find out exactly where it’s located. BC and Quebec also have provincial will registries.
