Estate Planning
Estate Planning
OVERVIEW
Nidus uses the term Estate Planning to refer to making arrangements for AFTER death. A Will is an essential document for estate planning.
The term Personal Planning (Nidus’ expertise) is about making arrangements for while you are alive – BEFORE DEATH – in case of incapacity, for end-of-life, and other support needs. You may need help in one or more of the four life areas: health care, personal care, legal matters or financial affairs. Personal planning is about quality-of-life to the end-of-life.
The spotlight has traditionally been on estate planning and making a Will. With the aging of the population and other factors, the spotlight is shifting to personal planning. Both are on the Planning Continuum.
Many of us will name the same people in our estate planning and personal planning documents to ensure continuity and because these are the people who know us the best and who we can trust to respect our wishes.
RESOURCES ON ESTATE PLANNING – click links
This fact sheet is not a step-by-step guide. It gives tips based on people’s experiences and discusses the role of an Executor appointed in a Will. Updated October 2018.
Dying Without a Will – NEW
Some people are considered not mentally capable to make a Will. This fact sheet explains who has legal authority to arrange burial or cremation and how the estate must be distributed if someone dies without a Will. Updated October 2018.
Information for First Nations Persons On-Reserve
For the most part, a First Nation Person Ordinarily Resident On-Reserve in BC is advised to follow BC legislation for making a Will and settling an estate. But two important differences: 1) How land/real estate is owned on-reserve and who can inherit; 2) Indigenous Services Canada, BC Region Estates Unit must be contacted when a First Nation Person On-Reserve dies.
Joint Ownership: the Good, the Bad, and the Risky! – NEW
Joint Ownership is common for spouses, but there are many risks to joint ownership with someone other than your spouse.
MORE RESOURCES – click links
See some FAQ on Wills and Estates
Read about A Will made outside BC – can I use it in BC?
