In Ontario, the legal process of "probate" is officially called applying for a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee. For many families, the most significant expense is the Estate Administration Tax (EAT).
Ontario Estate Administration Tax (EAT)
As of 2025, the tax rates are fixed by the provincial government based on the total gross value of the deceased person's assets located in Ontario.
| Estate Value | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| First $50,000 | $0 (Tax-Free) |
| Amount over $50,000 | $15 per $1,000 (1.5%) |
Important: Assets held in joint tenancy with right of survivorship or those with named beneficiaries (like RRSPs or life insurance) are generally excluded from the EAT calculation.
Executor Compensation in Ontario
Ontario courts generally follow a traditional guideline for "fair and reasonable" compensation for estate trustees, totaling 5% of the estate value:
- 01.2.5% on all capital and income received
- 02.2.5% on all capital and income disbursed
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Ontario Fee CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions
How much is probate tax in Ontario?
The Estate Administration Tax (EAT) is $15 for every $1,000 of estate value over $50,000. There is no tax on the first $50,000 of the estate.
How long does probate take in Ontario?
Standard applications for a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee typically take 4-8 weeks for court processing, though the entire estate settlement often takes 6-12 months.
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