How to sign your will in British Columbia

Step by step

1. 1

   Print the will on quality paper and review every page before signing.

2. 2

   Select two adult witnesses who are NOT beneficiaries under this will and NOT a spouse or child of a beneficiary.

3. 3

   You and both witnesses must be in the same location for the signing. Remote signing under emergency orders may have expired — confirm current rules with a notary public if needed.

4. 4

   Sign or initial every page.

5. 5

   Sign your full legal name on the signature page in the presence of both witnesses at the same time.

6. 6

   Each witness signs in your presence and each other's presence.

7. 7

   Although BC does not require an affidavit of execution, completing one with a notary public before probate saves time later.

8. 8

   Store the original signed will safely. Notify your executor of its location. Consider filing a notice in the BC Wills Registry (Vital Statistics Agency).

Good to know in British Columbia

• BC WESA s.60: the court has discretion to vary a will on application by a spouse or child if the will does not make adequate provision for their proper maintenance and support. This can override Faraid distribution — professional legal advice is strongly recommended.
• BC does not recognize polygamous marriages. Only your legally married spouse has automatic rights under WESA.
• Under BC WESA, marriage after the will's date does NOT revoke the will. However, separation (even without divorce) may affect your spouse's entitlement.
• Beneficiary designations on RRSPs, RRIFs, TFSAs, and life insurance pass OUTSIDE the estate and are NOT distributed through this will.
• BC WESA allows the court to give effect to a document intended as a will even if formalities were not followed — but this is uncertain and costly; follow all formal requirements.