As a Canadian retiree, you've spent decades building your nest egg. Now it's time to ensure your legacy is protected with a properly executed will. While traditional lawyer-drafted wills can cost $800-$2,000 or more, online will platforms have emerged as cost-effective alternatives. But are they right for your situation?
Why Retirees Need to Pay Special Attention
Your estate planning needs are more complex than younger adults. You're likely dealing with:
Substantial RRSP/RRIF accounts requiring tax-efficient strategies
Multiple beneficiaries across generations
Real estate holdings and investment portfolios
Blended family considerations
Potential long-term care and medical directive needs
Let's examine the leading online will platforms available to Canadian retirees.
Top Online Will Platforms in Canada
1. Willful
Cost: $99-$378 depending on complexity
Best For: Straightforward estates with clear beneficiary wishes
Strengths:
User-friendly interface with plain language
Includes Power of Attorney documents
Province-specific legal compliance
Unlimited updates for one year
Option to consult with lawyers for additional fee
Limitations:
May not handle complex trust arrangements
Limited guidance on tax optimization strategies
Not ideal for business owners or those with international assets
2. Epilogue (formerly LegalWills)
Cost: $139-$199
Best For: Budget-conscious retirees with simple estates
Strengths:
Most affordable option
Includes will, POA, and living will
Step-by-step guidance through the process
Established platform with years of operation
Limitations:
Less sophisticated than competitors
Interface can feel dated
Minimal support for complex scenarios
3. LawDepot
Cost: Starting at $39 for basic documents
Best For: DIY-oriented individuals comfortable with legal documents
Strengths:
Very affordable
Wide range of legal documents beyond wills
Pay-per-document or subscription options
Detailed customization options
Limitations:
Requires more legal knowledge to navigate effectively
Less hand-holding through the process
Customer support less robust than premium options
4. NotaryPro
Cost (online): $40.95-$76.95
Cost (in-person): $45.95-$86.95
Best For: Those wanting notary services included
Strengths:
Virtual notarization included
Video consultation available
Particularly strong for Quebec residents (notarial wills)
Professional review process
Limitations:
Higher cost than competitors
Primarily focused on notarization rather than complex planning
What These Platforms Handle Well
Online will platforms are excellent for retirees who have:
Clear beneficiary designations
Straightforward asset distribution wishes
Standard family structures
Canadian-only assets
Estates under $1-2 million in complexity
They typically include:
Last Will and Testament
Power of Attorney for Property
Power of Attorney for Personal Care (Healthcare Directive)
Executor and guardian designations
Specific bequests and residual estate distribution
When You Should Skip Online Platforms
Consider a traditional estate lawyer if you have:
Significant RRSP/RRIF accounts requiring sophisticated tax planning
Blended families with children from multiple relationships
Business interests or professional corporations
US or international assets creating cross-border tax issues
Disabled beneficiaries needing Henson trusts
Estranged family members likely to contest the will
Complex real estate holdings including rental properties or cottages
Charitable giving strategies requiring detailed structuring
Assets over $2-3 million where estate tax planning is critical
The Hybrid Approach: Best of Both Worlds
Many retirees find success with a hybrid strategy:
Start online to organize your thoughts and understand the process
Draft a preliminary will using an online platform
Consult with a lawyer for a one-hour review ($300-500)
Finalize with professional guidance on complex elements
This approach typically costs $500-800 total—less than a full lawyer-drafted will, but with professional oversight where it matters most.
Critical Considerations for Retirees
RRSP/RRIF Beneficiary Designations
Your RRSP and RRIF allow direct beneficiary designations that bypass your will entirely. This is actually advantageous for tax purposes when naming a spouse, but online platforms may not adequately explain these nuances.
Executor Selection
Choosing the right executor is crucial when you have substantial assets. Online platforms help you name an executor but provide limited guidance on whether your choice can handle the tax filings, investment management, and family dynamics involved.
Healthcare Directives
Most platforms include living wills and healthcare powers of attorney—essential documents as you age. This is one area where online platforms genuinely excel, making these important documents accessible.
Provincial Differences
Estate law varies significantly by province. Ensure any platform you choose is explicitly designed for your province's requirements. Quebec, in particular, has unique notarial will requirements.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious if an online platform:
Doesn't ask detailed questions about your assets
Offers one-size-fits-all templates
Lacks province-specific versions
Doesn't explain witness and signing requirements
Has no process for updates or changes
Doesn't include Powers of Attorney
The Bottom Line
Online will platforms serve an important role for Canadian retirees with straightforward estates. They're affordable, accessible, and better than having no will at all—which describes 50% of Canadians.
However, if you have a substantial RRSP, complex family dynamics, or significant assets, the $1,000-1,500 you spend on professional legal advice could save your estate tens of thousands in taxes and prevent costly family disputes.
My Recommendation: If your estate is worth over $500,000 or involves any complexity, start with an online platform to organize your thoughts, then invest in at least a consultation with an estate lawyer. Your beneficiaries will thank you.
Next Steps
Inventory your assets including all accounts, properties, and valuables
Review your beneficiary designations on RRSPs, TFSAs, and insurance policies
Decide your approach: fully online, fully lawyer, or hybrid
Don't delay: half of all estate planning occurs after a health scare—do it now while you're thinking clearly
Remember: the best will is the one that actually exists. Whether you choose an online platform or a lawyer, the important thing is taking action to protect your legacy and provide clarity for your loved ones.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Estate laws vary by province, and individual circumstances differ significantly. Consult with a qualified estate lawyer for advice specific to your situation.
