How to Complete Form 74A in Ontario Without a Lawyer
Form 74A is Ontario's standard probate application. Here's what every field requires, what causes court rejection, and how to file it yourself without a legal retainer.
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All articles about Ontario Probate Process Guide.
Best Ontario Probate Guide When There Is No Will (Intestate Estate)
No will in Ontario means no named executor, mandatory administration bond, and intestacy distribution rules. Here's what you need before you file anything.
Can You Avoid Probate in Ontario? Five Legal Ways to Reduce or Skip It
Five ways to avoid or reduce probate in Ontario — joint tenancy, named beneficiaries, small estate process, dual wills, and the First Dealings Exemption explained.
Best Ontario Probate Guide for Out-of-Province Executors
Named executor for an Ontario estate but living in BC, Alberta, or abroad? Here's what changes — bonds, remote filing, and what you must mail to the courthouse.
Ontario Probate Guide vs ClearEstate: Which Is Right for Your Estate?
ClearEstate starts at $4,648 for Ontario probate. A self-serve probate guide costs a fraction of that. Here's exactly when each option makes sense.
Estate Information Return Form Ontario: What to File and When
Ontario's Estate Information Return (Form 9955) — the 180-day deadline, Gentax online filing, what assets to list, amendment rules, and penalty risks.
Alternatives to ClearEstate for Ontario Probate and Estate Settlement
ClearEstate starts at $4,648 for Ontario probate. Here are the real alternatives — self-serve guides, probate lawyers, and DIY government forms — and when each makes sense.
Proof of Death Ontario: Funeral Director Statement vs. Official Death Certificate
Ontario proof of death documents explained — when a funeral director's statement is enough, when you need the official death certificate, processing times, and costs.
Graduated Rate Estate Ontario: The Tax Designation Executors Overlook
Ontario Graduated Rate Estate (GRE) explained — the 36-month window, T3 trust returns, marginal tax rates, and why missing this designation costs the estate money.
Secondary Will Ontario: How Dual Wills Reduce Probate Tax on Business Assets
Ontario secondary wills explained — which assets to carve out, how dual wills avoid probate on private company shares, and how to structure the two documents.
Ontario Probate Forms: Which Forms You Need and Where to Get Them
Ontario probate forms explained — Form 74A vs 74.1A, when to use each, which supporting forms are required, and how to file through Justice Services Online.
Ontario Probate Fees: What Executors Actually Pay to File
Ontario probate fees explained — the $50k exemption, the $15 per $1,000 EAT rate, what assets count, and what debts you cannot deduct.
Executor Compensation Ontario: How the 5% Fee Actually Works
Ontario executor fees explained — the unofficial 5% tariff, how courts calculate fair compensation, when to take it, and how to avoid beneficiary disputes.
Estate Trustee Ontario: What the Role Means and What It Legally Requires
Ontario estate trustee explained — the difference from 'executor', fiduciary duties, liability risks, bond requirements, and when to apply for a Certificate of Appointment.