Most Canadians don't need to pay a lawyer $1,500 to make a will. But some do. Here is an honest breakdown of when an online will platform is the right choice — and when it isn't.
An online will platform walks you through a questionnaire, populates a legal template, and generates a PDF. For most Canadians with straightforward estates this covers everything that needs to be covered.
The document is legally valid provided it is properly executed. Where most platforms fail is exactly at that point — they hand you the PDF and leave execution entirely to you.
Here is what you actually pay for a Will + Both POAs in Canada, all-in, for one person:
Consider a lawyer if any of the following apply:
Every major online will platform in Canada — Willful, Epilogue, LegalWills — hands you a PDF and a set of instructions. You are responsible for finding witnesses, arranging a notary, completing the affidavit, and booking an appointment. This process typically takes 3–6 weeks and costs $125–$325 in additional fees.
Willbeing is the only online platform in Canada that includes execution. Ontario clients sign at Canada Notary — free, same day or next day. The affidavit is completed at the appointment. Nothing falls through the cracks.