Wills and Estates

Without a Will, the government doesn’t ‘get it all.’ Although each province has a plan in place for what will happen to your assets when you pass away, why risk allowing the government to decide how to distribute your estate? Do you know what that plan is? Does it reflect your values? It might not…

By having an up to date Will (and reviewing it regularly!) you will ensure that your estate distribution plan reflects your personal stewardship goals, adequately provides for any dependants, and leaves a testimony of the things that are important to you for those you leave behind.

A Will names an executor who will make sure your instructions are followed, nominates a guardian to look after any minor children, and ensures that assets are distributed in a way that is efficient and responsible. In some situations, a Will can provide reassurances that beneficiaries will receive their inheritance over time and in a way that does not overwhelm them, or in some cases encroach on government funded disability benefits.

A well-planned Will is the foundational document in your estate plan. It’s worth making sure you have one in place.

Meeting with a lawyer to prepare a Will can be an intimidating process for many of us. To help make this process easier, CSS provides free Will Planning Visits to supporters of CSS partners.

In a Will Planning Visit, you can expect a CSS Stewardship Consultant to meet with you either in person, over Skype, or by phone to have a private, confidential conversation. During the Visit, the Stewardship Consultant will:

• Get to know your family situation and needs,
• Discuss your current financial situation to determine any tax planning requirements or other financial concerns,
• Explain the roles and responsibilities of an Executor and help you choose a person to act as your Executor,
• Explain the roles and responsibilities of a Power of Attorney and help you choose a person to act as your Power of Attorney,
• Explain the roles and responsibilities of a Guardian and help you choose a person to act as your Guardian,
• Discuss how charitable giving can be included in your Will, and explain the tax implications to you,
• Explain how you can use a trust to provide for your children if necessary,
• And much more!

At the end of the visit, you will be provided with a written report which will be sent to a lawyer of your choice to have your Will prepared. The report is not intended to be a substitute for a properly prepared Will, but should be considered a preparation step.

The Will Planning Visit is free to you, is confidential, and there is no obligation of any sort.