Making a Will in New Westminster, British Columbia

New Westminster, with about 79,000 residents, is BC's oldest city and a transit-connected pocket of older homes and growing condo density.

What a valid will requires in New Westminster

BC's Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA) governs every will made in New Westminster. A standard will must be in writing, signed at the end by you (or by another person at your direction in your presence), and witnessed by two adults present together. You must be 16 and have testamentary capacity. BC is one of the few provinces that recognizes fully electronic wills under WESA s.35.1 — but they still need two witnesses present by video link or in person. Holograph wills are not valid in BC.

Probate and cost in New Westminster

New Westminster estates are probated through the BC Supreme Court registry serving the region. BC's probate fee is roughly 0.6% on the first $25,000–$50,000 and 1.4% above, plus a $200 filing fee — about $13,650 on a $1,000,000 estate. Naming beneficiaries on RRSPs, TFSAs, and life insurance, plus joint tenancy where appropriate, can meaningfully reduce what passes through probate.

If you die without a will in New Westminster

BC's WESA intestacy formula gives a spouse the first $300,000 (or $150,000 if children are not also the spouse's) plus a share of the rest. Common-law partners who lived with you for at least two years count as a spouse under WESA — but the formula still rarely matches what most New Westminster couples would actually want. A will is the only way to be specific.

Getting started

For a simple estate, a reputable British Columbia online will signed with two witnesses (or, in Quebec, a notarial will) is often enough; for blended families, businesses, or larger estates, see a New Westminster estate lawyer. Pair your will with Powers of Attorney for Property and Personal Care.

Frequently asked questions

Are electronic wills legal in New Westminster? Yes — BC recognizes fully electronic wills under WESA, signed and witnessed by video. How much is probate in New Westminster? Roughly 1.4% above $50,000 — about $13,650 on a $1M estate, plus a $200 filing fee. Do common-law partners inherit in New Westminster? Yes, after living together for at least two years under WESA.

Not legal advice. General information about BC law as of 2026. Confirm specifics with a New Westminster estate lawyer.