General information
A will is a legal document left by someone who has died. It lets others know what to do with that person’s estate and who has the legal authority to do those things. A will that is valid, easily found, and understood is important. It can help reduce the confusion and uncertainty that death sometimes brings and provide direction about your wishes to your family and the people you care about.
When a person dies and leaves a valid will, it is the responsibility of the executor named in the will to administer the estate.
- An executor is the person or organization named in a will to administer and distribute an estate
- An estate refers to all the money, assets and property owned by a person
Usually, an executor is a family member or close friend. If it is a complicated estate, it could be a professional, such as a lawyer or trust company.
Choosing the PGT as your executor
If there is no suitable person to act as an executor, the Public Guardian and Trustee (PGT) may provide this service. When we agree to administer the estate and there is a valid will, we follow the terms of the will.
If you want to discuss whether it would be appropriate to name the PGT as your executor, please contact us at estates@trustee.bc.ca and ask to speak to the Manager, Quality Assurance in Estate and Personal Trust Services (or EPTS).
Use professional advice when making a will
Making a will does not need to be complicated or expensive. Self-help will kits are available, but they may not be current or valid in B.C. Wills are an area where professional help is worth the cost. We recommend that you seek professional advice to:
- Make sure your will is clear and complete, and can be administrated without confusion or additional legal costs
- Appoint a guardian for any minor children you may have
- Make sure your will is valid
- Register your will appropriately
Seek the advice of a qualified professional, such as a lawyer experienced in wills and estates. Notaries can also prepare wills, but there are limitations to the types of wills a notary can make.
Register your will
Registering your will can help make sure it can be found at the time of your death.
Register your will with the BC Vital Statistics Agency.
The Agency does not keep a copy of the will, only the date on which the will was made and the will's location.