Making a Will in Ottawa, Ontario
Last updated 2026-06 · Ontario
As the national capital, Ottawa is home to a large population of public servants, military members, and bilingual families — groups for whom clear estate planning matters. With about a million residents, Ottawa follows the same Ontario will rules as the rest of the province.
What a valid will requires in Ottawa
Under Ontario's Succession Law Reform Act, a standard Ottawa will must be in writing, signed by you at the end, and witnessed by two adults present together who don't benefit under it. You must be 18 and capable. A fully handwritten holograph will is valid without witnesses; fully electronic wills are not clearly recognized in Ontario, so sign on paper.
Probate and cost in Ottawa
Ottawa estates go through the Ontario Superior Court of Justice estates office in Ottawa. Ontario's Estate Administration Tax is about 1.5% above $50,000 — roughly $14,250 on a $1,000,000 estate. Naming beneficiaries on registered accounts and insurance, and using joint tenancy where appropriate, keeps assets out of the probated estate. Federal pension and benefit designations are common in Ottawa — make sure they're current.
If you die without a will in Ottawa
Ontario's intestacy formula gives a married spouse the first $350,000 plus a share of the rest, while a common-law partner inherits nothing. A will is the only way to provide for a common-law partner or to direct a blended-family estate.
Getting started
Simple estate? A reputable Ontario online will, signed with two witnesses, often does the job. Complex situations — blended families, a business, cross-border assets — warrant an Ottawa estate lawyer. Add Powers of Attorney for Property and Personal Care.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a will cost in Ottawa? A simple lawyer-drafted will is usually a few hundred dollars; online wills cost less. How much is probate in Ottawa? About 1.5% above $50,000 — roughly $14,250 on a $1M estate. Are online wills legal in Ottawa? Yes, once printed and signed with two witnesses.
Not legal advice. General information about Ontario law as of 2026. Confirm specifics with an Ottawa estate lawyer.
More from Ontario
- Making a Will in Toronto, Ontario
How to make a valid will in Toronto: Ontario's signing and witnessing rules, the 1.5% Estate Administration Tax, intestacy, and where Toronto probate is filed.
- Making a Will in Hamilton, Ontario
How to make a valid will in Hamilton: Ontario's witnessing rules, the 1.5% Estate Administration Tax, intestacy, and where Hamilton probate is filed.
- Making a Will in Brampton, Ontario
How to make a valid will in Brampton: Ontario's witnessing rules, the 1.5% Estate Administration Tax, intestacy, and where Peel Region probate is filed.
- Making a Will in Mississauga, Ontario
How to make a valid will in Mississauga: Ontario's witnessing rules, the 1.5% Estate Administration Tax, intestacy, and where Peel Region probate is filed.