Probating a Will

Probate is a process that verifies a will is real under B.C. laws.

Whether a will needs to be probated or not depends on the agencies and financial institutions that hold assets within an estate – they may require that a will is probated before the assets are distributed or accessed by anyone.

For example, if your uncle kept the majority of his savings in a local credit union, that credit union may require you to prove his will is legitimate under B.C. law before you withdraw his remaining funds.

If you are unsure whether or not a will must be probated, you may wish to seek legal advice.

Representation Grant

Sometimes institutions like banks will also require a representation grant (also sometimes called an estate grant). This is a document that says you have been legally proven to be the executor named in the will.

• Find out more about executor responsibilities

An application for a representation grant may be made in any Supreme Court registry. We suggest that you start by using our online questionnaire to guide you through the process. The answers you provide in the questionnaire will simplify the process for you by identifying the correct forms you’ll need to complete for your circumstance.

• Find your nearest Supreme Court registry

You can also apply to the registry to have a representation grant from another province or jurisdiction recognized in B.C.