How do I Make a Free Canadian Will?
One of the biggest decisions regarding our mortality is how we wish our remaining assets to be used, distributed or spent. Writing a will specifies our wishes, allowing an executor--someone we choose before our death to follow the will's directives--to easily distribute our estate upon our passing. It also keeps a court or government entity from needing to make that decision for us. While hiring an attorney to write a will can be costly, there are ways of obtaining a free will in Canada.
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Instructions
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Write out a complete will in your own handwriting, which is allowed in Canada. Be as complete and concise as possible with all assets, accounts and wishes to avoid any legal wrangling upon your death. Sign and date the will; a witness is not required.
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Inquire at your bank, if you use a major Canadian banking institution, to speak with their trust company or department. This is often a free service provided for banking customers.
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Explore the local library for books that discuss writing a Canadian will and offer free templates and examples. Publications available include "Wills," by Denis Clifford; "Ethical Wills," by Barry K. Baines; or "Last Will and Testament--Protect Your Loved Ones: A Step-By-Step Guide To Do-It-Yourself," by Lawpak, Inc.
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Use Quicken WillMaker to write your own will for no cost. This software program is usually offered as a free bonus with the current year of Quicken books. If you use Quicken, you can obtain the software for free. If you do not use Quicken, check with friends or family to see if it is possible to borrow the Quicken WillMaker.
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Design a free will at CanadaWills.com, which explains the need for a will and walks the user through writing one on the free website. While no legal advice can be given by the website, you can stop or start the will at your leisure, and print copies when you are satisfied that it is completed.
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Tips & Warnings
Even if you choose to write your own will, it is a good idea to have a lawyer knowledgeable in estate law look over the document to make sure it is complete.
References
Resources
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