How much does a will cost in BC?
Compare a lawyer, a notary and an online service by what the quote includes.
The price depends on your situation and the work included. A simple will, a pair of wills and a package with incapacity-planning documents are different purchases. Ask for a written total in Canadian dollars, including taxes and any extra appointments.
We have removed our previous unsourced “typical 2026” price ranges. This page does not publish a current market-price survey or guarantee a provider’s fee. The BC government explains that cost depends on complexity.
Compare the options
| Option | What to ask about the fee | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| BC lawyer | Fixed fee or hourly? What could increase the quote? | Advice, drafting, revisions, signing and any trusts or cross-border issues. |
| BC notary | Is the quote for a will alone or a document package? | Whether your instructions fit the notary’s permitted scope; complex arrangements may need a lawyer. |
| Online service | One-time price or subscription? Are updates and additional documents extra? | BC suitability, support, signing instructions and whether individual legal advice is included. |
| Free or reduced-cost help | Who qualifies, what is included and is there a waiting list? | Current eligibility and whether the service can handle your circumstances. |
Six questions for a written quote
- Is this for one person or a couple, and which documents are included?
- Does it include advice, drafting and a signing appointment?
- How many revisions are included before signing?
- What are the taxes, disbursements, travel or extra appointment charges?
- What changes in my circumstances would require a new quote?
- What will storage, copies and later updates cost?
Tell the office about access or communication needs before booking: step-free access, large print, interpretation or extra time. Ask how these arrangements affect the appointment and quote.
When to ask for more individual advice
Raise blended families, business interests, assets outside BC, trusts, a dependant’s disability benefits, or plans to leave out a spouse or child before accepting a basic package. A low advertised price does not establish that the service covers those issues.
A will and incapacity documents do different jobs
A will deals with matters after death. Ask separately about an enduring power of attorney and a representation agreement for decisions during your lifetime. Confirm what you need and what each document costs; a will-only quote may exclude them.
What about a free will template?
Downloading a form does not by itself establish that your will is valid or appropriate. BC has execution requirements, including for electronic wills. Follow current BC guidance and obtain advice where your circumstances need it. Our free worksheet helps you prepare questions; it does not generate or replace a will.
People’s Law School’s preparation guide explains wills and links to possible free or reduced-cost help. Confirm the eligibility and availability directly with the service.
Will preparation is separate from probate costs
The fee to prepare a will is different from court probate fees or the expense of administering an estate after death. Use our BC probate-fee calculator for that separate estimate.
Sources and review
Checked October 5, 2026: BC Make a Will Week, BC wills and estate planning, and People’s Law School on professional help. This is an editorial source check, not independent legal review.