Ontario Probate Calculator

Estimate probate fees, executor compensation, and court costs in this province instantly. Updated for 2025 based on local Ontario probate statutes.

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Cost Estimator

Ontario Probate Fees (CAD)

Probate Cost Estimator

Instant estimate of legal fees, commissions, and court costs.

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Include all real estate, bank accounts, and physical property owned solely by the decedent.

How Probate Works in Ontario

In Ontario, probate is formally known as an Application for a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee. The primary cost is the Estate Administration Tax (EAT), calculated based on the total value of the deceased's estate.

Legal Fee Guidelines

Attorney fees in Ontario are typically based on the "Solicitor-and-Client" scale or a percentage (often 1.5-3%) plus hourly rates for complex matters.

Executor Compensation

Ontario guidelines suggest a "fair and reasonable" compensation of 2.5% on receipts and 2.5% on disbursements, totaling 5% of the estate.

Small Estate Shortcut

In Ontario, estates valued under CAD 50,000 may qualify for simplified probate procedures, saving months of time and thousands in fees.

Check Eligibility Now

Typical Ontario Probate Timeline

Most estates in Ontario follow this 6-stage process, taking an average of 6-12 months.

01

Petition

File petition with the Ontario probate court to open the estate.

02

Notice

Notify creditors and heirs of the probate proceedings.

03

Inventory

Appraise and inventory all estate assets.

04

Debts & Taxes

Pay valid creditor claims and final tax liabilities.

05

Distribution

Distribute remaining assets to legal beneficiaries.

06

Closing

File final accounting and close the estate.

Ways to Reduce Probate Costs in Ontario

Use the Small Estate Certificate for estates under $50,000
Designate beneficiaries on insurance and registered accounts (RRSP, TFSA)
Utilize joint ownership with right of survivorship for real estate
Consider primary and secondary wills for corporate assets

Statutory Reference: Estate Administration Tax Act, 1998

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does probate cost in Ontario?▼
Probate costs in Ontario typically range from 3-7% of the estate value. Estate Administration Tax (1.5% over $50k). Court filing fees range from CAD 0 to 0.
What are attorney fees for probate in Ontario?▼
Attorney fees in Ontario are typically based on the "Solicitor-and-Client" scale or a percentage (often 1.5-3%) plus hourly rates for complex matters.
How long does probate take in Ontario?▼
Probate in Ontario typically takes 6 to 12 months for standard estates. Complex or contested estates may take longer.
Can I avoid probate in Ontario?▼
Yes. Ontario allows estates under CAD 50,000 to use simplified procedures. Living trusts, joint ownership, and beneficiary designations can also help avoid probate.
What are executor fees in Ontario?▼
Ontario guidelines suggest a "fair and reasonable" compensation of 2.5% on receipts and 2.5% on disbursements, totaling 5% of the estate.

Probate Insights & Guides

Essential reading for executors and beneficiaries in Ontario.

International

Ontario Probate Guide 2025: Costs, EAT, and Timelines

Learn how the Estate Administration Tax (EAT) works in Ontario, including the $50,000 threshold, executor commissions, and typical timelines for 2025.

Read Guide
Basics

What is Probate? A Complete Beginner's Guide (2025)

Probate is the legal process of settling a deceased person's estate. Learn when probate is required, how long it takes, typical costs, and alternatives to avoid probate entirely in 2025.

Read Guide
Costs

5 Ways to Reduce Probate Costs (That Actually Work)

Probate can eat up 3-7% of an estate's value. Learn five proven strategies to minimize fees and protect your family's inheritance.

Read Guide

Maximize Your Probate Savings

Use our specialized tools to navigate the Ontario probate process with confidence.

Small Estate Checker

Determine if you can skip full probate using a simplified affidavit.

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Asset Categorizer

Identify which assets are subject to probate and which are exempt.

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Alternative Finder

Compare traditional probate costs against faster, cheaper legal alternatives.

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Need Expert Help with Ontario Probate?

Don't navigate the complex Ontario legal system alone. Connect with a professional probate specialist today for a consultation or explore our probate avoidance guides.

Find a Ontario SpecialistLearn to Avoid Probate

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