Question 1

How much does it cost to make a will in BC?

Accepted Answer

A professionally prepared will in BC typically costs $400–$1,200 for a straightforward will, and $1,500–$4,000+ for a will combined with powers of attorney, representation agreement, and trust provisions. The cost of a properly prepared will is almost always less than 1% of the estate value it protects, and a fraction of what an invalid or contested will costs families.

Question 2

What makes a will legally valid in BC?

Accepted Answer

Under BC's Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA), a valid will must be: made by a person 16 or older with testamentary capacity; in writing; signed by the will-maker at the end; and witnessed by two adults who are both present at the same time and also sign in the will-maker's presence. Witnesses and their spouses generally cannot benefit under the will.

Question 3

What happens if I die without a will in BC?

Accepted Answer

Dying without a will (intestate) means BC's WESA intestacy rules decide who inherits — not you. A surviving spouse receives the first $300,000 of the estate, with the remainder split between the spouse and children. Common-law partners of less than 2 years receive nothing. Without a will, an administrator must be court-appointed, the process is slower and more expensive, and your wishes are completely ignored.

Question 4

Does a common-law spouse automatically inherit in BC?

Accepted Answer

Only if they qualify as a 'spouse' under WESA — which requires having lived together in a marriage-like relationship for at least 2 years. If the relationship was under 2 years at the date of death and there is no will, a common-law partner receives nothing. This is one of the most important reasons unmarried couples in BC should have wills that explicitly provide for each other.

Question 5

Does separation revoke my existing will in BC?

Accepted Answer

No — and this surprises many people. Under WESA, separation alone does NOT automatically cancel gifts or executor appointments to your spouse in your will. Only a final divorce order revokes them automatically. If you separate, update your will immediately — your separated spouse could still inherit everything under your existing will if you die before the divorce is finalized.

Question 6

Can someone challenge my will in BC?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Under WESA s.60, a spouse or child who was not adequately provided for can apply to BC Supreme Court to vary the will's distribution. A wills variation claim must be started within 180 days of probate being granted. Careful planning and clear documentation of your intentions are the best protection.

Question 7

When should I update my will in BC?

Accepted Answer

Update your will after any major life event: separation or divorce (update immediately — don't wait for the divorce); marriage (a new marriage revokes a prior will in BC); birth or adoption of a child; death of an executor or beneficiary; significant change in assets; or moving to or from BC. Review your will every 3–5 years even without a major event.

Question 8

Do I need a lawyer to make a will in BC?

Accepted Answer

You are not legally required to use a lawyer, but BC courts repeatedly see DIY wills and online will kits cause costly problems: invalid execution, unclear language, unintended tax consequences, and failed wills variation defences. A professionally prepared will by a BC estate lawyer gives your family the greatest certainty.

How to Make a Will in BC 2026 — Requirements & Cost