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Ontario Probate Fee Calculator

Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team

When a person dies in Ontario, their estate must go through probate to distribute assets to beneficiaries. The probate process involves government fees, legal services, and other costs. This calculator helps you estimate the total probate fees you may need to pay when administering an estate in Ontario.

How to Use This Calculator

To estimate your Ontario probate fees:

  1. Enter the estimated value of the estate in Canadian dollars (CAD).
  2. Select whether the estate is being administered by a lawyer or directly by the executor.
  3. Click "Calculate" to see the estimated total probate fees.
  4. Review the breakdown of costs and assumptions.

The calculator provides an estimate based on current Ontario government fees and typical legal service rates. Actual costs may vary depending on your specific situation.

Understanding Ontario Probate Fees

Probate fees in Ontario include government charges and legal service costs. The main components are:

  • Government Fees: These are fixed fees charged by the Ontario government for processing the probate application.
  • Legal Fees: If you hire a lawyer to handle the probate process, they will charge their own fees.
  • Executor Fees: Some executors charge a fee for their services, though this is not required by law.

Government Probate Fees

The government fee for probate in Ontario is calculated as follows:

  • First $20,000 of estate value: $100
  • Next $20,000 of estate value: $50
  • Each additional $20,000 or part thereof: $25

Legal Fees

Legal fees vary depending on the complexity of the estate and the lawyer's rates. Typical hourly rates for probate work range from $200 to $500 per hour. Many lawyers charge a flat fee for probate services, which can range from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on the estate's value.

Calculator Details

The calculator uses the following assumptions:

  • Government probate fees are based on the estate's value.
  • Legal fees are estimated at 10% of the estate's value if a lawyer is hired.
  • Executor fees are not included in the calculation.

The calculator does not account for additional costs such as:

  • Property taxes
  • Notary fees
  • Accounting or appraisal fees
  • Other professional services

Worked Examples

Example 1: Small Estate

An estate with a value of $15,000:

  • Government fee: $100 (first $20,000 bracket)
  • Legal fee (10% of estate value): $1,500
  • Total estimated probate fees: $1,600

Example 2: Medium Estate

An estate with a value of $50,000:

  • Government fee: $150 ($100 for first $20,000 + $50 for next $20,000)
  • Legal fee (10% of estate value): $5,000
  • Total estimated probate fees: $5,150

Example 3: Large Estate

An estate with a value of $150,000:

  • Government fee: $225 ($100 for first $20,000 + $50 for next $20,000 + $25 for next $20,000 + $25 for remaining $90,000)
  • Legal fee (10% of estate value): $15,000
  • Total estimated probate fees: $15,225

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does probate take in Ontario?
The probate process typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the complexity of the estate and whether a lawyer is involved.
Do I need a lawyer to probate an estate in Ontario?
No, you do not need a lawyer to probate an estate in Ontario. However, hiring a lawyer can simplify the process and reduce the risk of errors.
What happens if the estate has no assets?
If the estate has no assets, you may be able to apply for a simple administration instead of probate. This process is faster and has lower fees.
Are executor fees required in Ontario?
No, executor fees are not required by law in Ontario. Executors are volunteers who perform their duties without compensation.