Services
Estate Administration
What is Estate Administration?
Estate administration is the complete process of managing and settling a deceased person's affairs. As an executor (estate trustee), you're responsible for everything from gathering assets to paying debts to distributing inheritances.
It's a big responsibility with serious legal and financial obligations. Many executors feel overwhelmed - and that's completely normal. The good news? You don't have to do it alone.
Your Key Responsibilities as Executor
Legal Documents
- Apply for probate if needed
- File final tax returns
- Obtain clearance certificates
- Handle court filings
Financial Management
- Locate and secure all assets
- Pay all debts and taxes
- Manage investments
- Handle bank accounts
Beneficiary Relations
- Communicate with beneficiaries
- Distribute assets fairly
- Handle disputes
- Provide estate accounting
The Estate Administration Process
Phase 1: Immediate Tasks (First 30 Days)
- Secure the property and assets
- Notify banks and financial institutions
- Cancel credit cards and subscriptions
- Arrange funeral if needed
- Locate the will and important documents
- Notify beneficiaries
- Contact estate lawyer if needed
- Obtain multiple death certificates
Phase 2: Legal & Financial Setup (30-90 Days)
- Apply for probate if required
- Open estate bank account
- Complete asset inventory
- Get professional appraisals
- File income tax returns
- Notify Canada Revenue Agency
- Review and pay all debts
- Handle insurance claims
Phase 3: Settlement & Distribution (6-18 Months)
- Obtain tax clearance certificates
- Sell assets if necessary
- Prepare final accounting
- Get beneficiary approvals
- Distribute assets to beneficiaries
- Transfer property titles
- Close estate accounts
- File final estate returns
Common Estate Administration Challenges
Complex Assets
Business interests, foreign properties, or complicated investments require specialized knowledge and can significantly delay estate settlement.
Family Disputes
Disagreements between beneficiaries or challenges to your decisions as executor can create stress and legal complications.
Tax Complications
Estate tax returns, capital gains calculations, and obtaining clearance certificates can be confusing and time-consuming.
Time Management
Balancing executor duties with your own work and family responsibilities while meeting legal deadlines can be overwhelming.
When Should You Get Professional Help?
While some simple estates can be handled independently, you should consider professional help if any of these apply:
- ✓ Estate value over $100,000
- ✓ Real estate ownership
- ✓ Business interests
- ✓ Foreign assets or beneficiaries
- ✓ Complex investment portfolios
- ✓ Family disputes or will contests
- ✓ Significant debts or creditor claims
- ✓ Tax complications
- ✓ Multiple beneficiaries
- ✓ You feel overwhelmed or uncertain
Ready to Get Executor Support?
Don't struggle through estate administration alone. We can connect you with our trusted network of experienced Ontario estate lawyers who can guide you through the process and help ensure everything is handled properly and efficiently.
Get Connected - Free Consultation →