The Estate Blog - Edward Olkovich Law

Ontario Executors Require Answers to Questions: When can executors take charge of the estate?

When can executors take charge of the estate? Your appointment as executor is effective when a person dies. A deceased person’s property legally “vests” in you as their personal representative, executor, or estate trustees. That’s a way of saying you become the legal—but not registered owner—of all…
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Do You Need to Probate a Will for Joint Assets?

I know people are paranoid about probate. If I mention the word probate, some people panic. So let’s have some calm for a minute. I’ll explain some new twists on the subject to save you worry and money. I had an email exchange with Ben, an accountant….
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Ontario Executors Require Answers to Questions: Who pays for the funeral if you are the executor?

Who pays for the funeral if you are the executor? Executors must be reasonable when arranging a funeral. Funeral directions in wills are not legally binding on executors. The funeral is an estate expense shared by residual beneficiaries. They can object if the costs are extravagant. You…
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Ontario Executors Require Answers to Questions: How do I know I am the executor?

How do I know I am the executor? Did a relative tell you that you are their executor? Executors, or estate trustees in Ontario, must be named in a will. You must find an original signed will to confirm you are appointed. It is a person’s last…
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Will You Be an Executor of an Estate?

Ontario has new estate rules to tax estates. Executors, don’t be caught off guard.Starting September 2015, you can become a happy executor. Join me for The Happy Executor “How to Be an Executor” seminar series for executors and executors-to-be. You will learn how to: use your executor…
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Ontario Estate Information Return – 3 Things Executors Probably Don’t Know

Ontario executors now have new probate headaches. I’ll share 3 key tips that you and your estate trustee probably don’t know. These tips should help eliminate some probate panic. TIP #1 Estate Information Return (EIR) These forms are required for most estates after January 1, 2015….
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Ontario Executors New Estate Tax Duties

I will try to make this simple. Any talk of taxes usually can make you fall into a coma. But stay with me to avoid estate tax audits and costly penalties. Being an estate trustee in Ontario was complicated enough. As of January 1, 2015, the job…
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Bad Legal Advice Costs Executors Plenty – Part 2

You recall from my last post Blake was Uncle Jerry’s estate trustee. I will finish Blake’s tale. You’ll learn how a simple matter can cost an executor plenty. In this post, I’ll also give you steps to protect yourself as executor. Blake, the executor or “estate trustee”…
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2015 Ontario Probate Tax Rules on Real Estate

Are you a new Ontario estate trustee appointed after January 1st, 2015? Then be prepared for surprises and new probate dangers. You must comply with new estate tax regulations. I’ll explain the new dangers and penalties you face as executor. I’ll simplify the rules to help you…
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Bad Legal Advice Costs Executors Plenty

You’re the estate executor under a relative’s will. You found your uncle’s will and you need legal advice. You look for free advice online. You’re thinking all lawyers are the same. Any lawyer can give you estate advice. Well, let me explain how this thinking can cost…
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“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