How Much Does a Will Cost in Alberta?

According to a 2021 Canadian Lawyer Magazine's legal fees survey, the average cost of a simple will drafted by an estate lawyer in Alberta is $816.

However, prices can range from $20 for a basic DIY will kit to over $4,000 for complex estate planning.

The Alberta Wills and Succession Act governs the creation and execution of wills in the province, ensuring that your final wishes are legally recognized by the Alberta Surrogate Court.

Average Costs for Final Will Documents in Alberta (2021 Survey Data):

• Simple will: $816
• Complex will (individual): $4,851
• Complex will (couple): $3,744

Source: Canadian Lawyer Magazine's 2021 legal fees survey

Use the calculator below to estimate the cost of creating a will based on your province and the type of will you need:

The price of creating a will isn't one-size-fits-all. Several factors can impact the overall cost, making it important to consider your unique circumstances when budgeting for this essential document.

Complexity of Your Estate

The more complex your estate, the more likely you are to incur higher costs when creating your will. This is because additional time and expertise are often required to properly address all aspects of a complicated estate. Factors that can increase complexity include:

• Multiple properties, investments, or business interests can increase costs.

• Special provisions like trusts or guardianship arrangements may require additional work.

Method of Will Preparation

The method you choose for preparing your will significantly impacts the cost. Each option offers a different balance of price, convenience, and personalization:

• Costs vary depending on whether you hire a lawyer, use a DIY kit, or an online platform.

• Each method offers different levels of service and pricing.

To help you understand your options, here's a detailed comparison of will creation methods in Alberta:

Comparing Will Creation Methods in Alberta:

• DIY Will Kits: $20 - $100
• Online Will Services: $99 - $250
• Lawyer-Drafted Wills: $400 - $4,851+

While DIY and online options are more affordable, they may not be suitable for complex estates. Lawyer-drafted wills offer personalized advice and ensure compliance with the Alberta Wills and Succession Act.

When budgeting for your will in Alberta, consider these potential additional costs:

• Notarization fees: $20 - $50 per document
• Witness fees: Usually free, but may incur costs if a notary public is required
• Will registration: $40 for registration with the Alberta Wills and Succession Act Registry
• Future updates: Costs vary, but can range from free (with some online services) to several hundred dollars for lawyer revisions

To ensure your will is recognized by the Alberta Surrogate Court, it must meet these requirements:

• You must be at least 18 years old (with some exceptions for minors)
• The will must be in writing
• You must sign the will in the presence of two witnesses
• The two witnesses must sign the will in your presence
• You must have testamentary capacity (sound mind and memory)

These requirements are set out in the Alberta Wills and Succession Act, which governs will creation in the province.

When deciding how to create your will in Alberta, consider:

1. Estate complexity: Simple estates may not require a lawyer's expertise
2. Budget: Balance cost against the potential risks of an improperly drafted will
3. Legal understanding: If you're unsure about the Alberta Wills and Succession Act, professional help may be worth the cost
4. Future changes: Consider how often you might need to update your will and the associated costs

Remember, while cost is an important factor, ensuring your will is legally valid and accurately reflects your wishes is crucial for protecting your estate and beneficiaries in Alberta.

Making an Informed Decision: Balancing Cost and Legal Protection

The cost of a will in Alberta varies widely, from $20 for a basic DIY kit to over $4,000 for complex lawyer-drafted wills.

Choose the option that best suits your estate's complexity, budget, and legal needs. Remember, while cost is important, ensuring your will is legally valid and accurately reflects your wishes is crucial for protecting your estate and beneficiaries in Alberta. Invest wisely in your will to secure your legacy and provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.