Notarial Will vs. Attested Will in Quebec: Which One Is Right for You?
In Quebec, there are two main types of legally valid Wills: a Notarial Will and an Attested Will. Both are recognized by law, but they differ in how they’re created, what they cost, and how they affect the administration of an estate.
Understanding the differences can help you decide which option best fits your needs—and your budget.
Creating the Will
Notarial Will
A Notarial Will is prepared by a licensed Quebec notary. The process typically involves a consultation, drafting, and formally signing the Will in the presence of the notary.
Upfront Cost: Generally $800 to $2,000, depending on complexity.
Time & Convenience: Involves multiple appointments over a period of days or weeks.
Updates: Each time you want to make a change to your Will you would need to go back to the notary and pay additional fees.
Attested Will
An Attested Will can be made without a notary. Using an online will platform, you answer a guided questionnaire, and then print and sign your will in front of two witnesses.
Upfront Cost: Usually $100 to $200.
Time & Convenience: Can be completed in under an hour, anytime, from the comfort of home.
Updates: Many online platforms let you update your Will for free, making it easy and cost-effective to keep your documents current as life changes.
Estate Administration
The biggest difference between Notarial and Attested Wills comes after death.
Notarial Will
Probate is the court process that confirms a Will’s validity. A Notarial Will does not need to be probated. Avoiding probate saves both time and money:
Cost Savings: No probate filing fees or professional fees.
Time Savings: Your liquidator can start settling the estate right away, often within days or weeks.
Attested Will
An Attested Will must be probated in Quebec before it can be acted upon.
Court Fees: Approximately $240 (as of 2025)
Professional Fees: While not strictly required, many liquidators choose to hire a lawyer or notary to prepare the probate application. This can cost $800 to $1,500.
Time: Probate can delay administration by several weeks or months, which delays the release of funds to the beneficiaries.
The Cost Trade-Off
When you compare the two options, the overall costs tend to balance out:
With a Notarial Will, you pay more upfront but save your heirs the cost and delay of probate later.
With an Attested Will, you save money upfront, but your estate will face additional steps and costs when the estate is administered.
The difference lies in when the money is spent—and by whom. If you prefer to minimize your own expenses now, an Attested Will may suit you. If you’d rather pay more today to save your loved ones hassle later, a Notarial Will may be the better fit.
Don’t Forget About Updates
One often overlooked factor is the cost of keeping your will up to date. Life changes—marriages, children, new property, changes in relationships—often mean your Will should be updated.
With a Notarial Will, each update involves an appointment and additional legal fees. Over a lifetime, these costs can add up.
With an Attested Will through an online platform, updates are typically free. You can log in, make changes, and regenerate your Will without paying again.
For people who expect to update their Will several times over the years, this can tilt the balance strongly in favor of making an Attested Will.
Final Thoughts
Both Notarial and Attested Wills are valid under Quebec law. The choice comes down to your priorities. The most important thing to remember is that either option is far better than having no Will at all. The most important step is choosing the one that aligns with your needs, your budget, and the legacy you want to leave behind.
