The Estate Blog - Edward Olkovich Law

Can we cut daughters from a previous marriage out of our will and leave everything to our son without risking an estate fight?

Find out what this complicated situation requires with FP Answers. Need help handling an estate with or without a will? Contact me for a meeting. I have solved estate problems for decades by going to court or through mediation. I offer you a meeting to discuss your needs by Zoom or in-person…
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Are Online DIY Wills Temporary Solutions or Not?

A man’s dying is more the survivor’s affair than his own. – Thomas Mann Too often people expect that making a will is a long and complicated process. They fear that this process takes more time and money than they can afford. One day when they have…
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Edward Olkovich Featured on the 3 Questions Podcast

Edward Olkovich was recently featured on an episode of the 3 Questions with Wayne Baxter podcast discussing 3 Questions Canadians Should Ask When Reviewing Their Estate Plan. Do you have questions about your estate plan? I have helped clients since 1978 plan their estates to protect their…
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10 Expensive Will Mistakes That Can Cost Loved Ones …and How to Fix Them

Here are ten expensive will mistakes that can cost your family in 2026. Find out how you can fix them and protect your loved ones and your money. Yes, I wrote the book, Estate to the Heart: How to Plan Wills and Estates for Your Loved Ones….
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Ontario’s Gift Law Could Cost You Thousands

Do you know the difference between legal and beneficial ownership? This post will summarize the difference. In Canada, there is a difference between legal and beneficial ownership. This is a distinction that can cost you. And it is real. This post is not legal advice which you…
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Why Making Your Will Is Crucial

Well-made wills are the best gift you can give your loved ones. I know this from my experience as a lawyer and author. Why is that? Because if you don’t make a will, the government will make one for you. They will not allow for variations or…
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Essential Skills for Ontario Estate Trustees: Navigating Your 3-Phase Process

As an Ontario estate trustee, you will be learning new skills. You may not be aware of how little you know about estate matters and taxes. However, the time you spend learning these skills in an estate administration is something that you are entitled to be compensated…
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What is an Ontario Estate Information Return (EIR)?

This post provides basic information about Ontario’s Estate Information Returns (EIR). Ontario executors must file provincial Estate Information Returns 180 calendar days after estate courts issue your certificate of appointment. Your duty is to comply with Ontario’s Estate Administration Tax Act. The government has a guide to…
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Ontario Probate Success – Your Essential Guide

If you apply for probate in Ontario, you will file an application for a certificate of appointment. This post outlines steps to prove who can deal with a person’s estate. It is for information purposes only and does not explain your legal duties as the estate’s personal…
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Ontario Estate Trustees Follow These Steps

As a first-time estate trustee or executor, you may feel scared by all your daily tasks. “What to do first?” is a common question. You worry you do not have any experience. But don’t worry; few people have executor experience. Besides, the laws keep changing and each…
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Older posts

“I want to thank Ed and his firm for getting me through a very difficult time. He was recommended to me by another lawyer and I am grateful for that recommendation. Ed kept me grounded, listened to me, counseled me and supported me. I do so appreciate that. And he is worth every penny. Thank you!” - Claudia R, Toronto

“Thank you for your professional advice and lawyering while I was planning my will, all accompanied with your patience and a sense of humour.” - Valerie G, Toronto

“Ed is a "straight shooter" who tells it like it is and helps you make the best possible decisions in your circumstances. I've personally seen the "magic" he can work in an estate and recommend him without reservation to anyone who wants an iron clad will or estate advice and management that saves money, frayed nerves and friendships.” - Jim R, Burlington

I have used Edward Olkovich for my own Will and I was the executor of my Brother-in-law’s will. My brother-in-law had a terminal illness and Edward had us devise his Will to minimize taxes and problems. Ed is located locally @ Jane and Bloor. He was very knowledgeable, friendly and thorough and has written many books on the subject. - Belinda M, Toronto

Ed is a thorough, responsive estates lawyer who I would recommend to anyone when needing a will or dealing with estate issues. - Eva S, Toronto

Dear Ed and “Team Olkovich” “Thank you for your knowledge, expertise and hard work to make our executor duties (almost) stress-free. Will miss the laughs and stories you tell so well. All our appreciation always!” - Pat, Dave & John, Toronto

Dear Ed, Thank you for all your wisdom and kindness throughout the process of settling Ann’s Estate. - Cheryl, Toronto

“The easiest professional I had to deal with to settle my parents’ needs was Ed. I told him what we needed. He was gracious with his advice and help - without delaying matters.” - Iain N., Toronto

“Magic! The guy knows magic!” - Steve G., Toronto

“In the land of estate law, Ed is King.” - Cheryl W., Toronto