Who Should Be the Executor of Your Will in Ontario? (Hint: It’s Not Always Your Eldest Child)

If you’re drafting a Will in Ontario, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is naming your executor — the person who will carry out your wishes when you’re no longer around to enforce them with a raised eyebrow and a spreadsheet.

And no, the job doesn’t automatically go to your eldest child, your accountant brother-in-law, or the kid who always wins at Monopoly.

Let’s break down what you actually need to consider — and some mistakes we’ve seen that you’ll definitely want to avoid.

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What Does an Executor Actually Do?

Think of your executor as the CEO of your estate — but with less glory and more paperwork.

They’re responsible for:

• Locating your Will
• Gathering your assets
• Paying off debts and taxes
• Distributing what’s left to your beneficiaries
• Dealing with banks, lawyers, the CRA, and (if you’re unlucky) bickering family members

If they do it wrong, they can be personally liable. So yes, it’s a big deal.

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So… Who Should You Choose?

Here’s what to look for in a good executor:

✅ Organized

They don’t need to be a CPA, but they should be comfortable dealing with forms, banks, and deadlines. If they can’t keep their email inbox under 3,000 unread messages, maybe reconsider.

✅ Trustworthy

They’ll have access to everything you’ve worked for. Pick someone who won’t “accidentally” forget to tell your nephew about that GIC you left him.

✅ Available

Avoid choosing someone who lives abroad or is in declining health. If the person is likely to predecease you or be unreachable, they’re not a great choice.

✅ Good with people

Family tensions can bubble up when money is involved. An executor needs to be a calm referee, not the spark that lights the fireworks.

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Should You Choose More Than One Executor?

You can — and sometimes should — appoint co-executors. But make sure they get along. Some siblings cannot agree on funeral music, let alone asset distribution.

If you name more than one, make sure your Will explains how they’re to make decisions — together or majority rules are examples.

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What If No One Seems Right?

If no family member fits the bill, you can appoint:

• A trusted friend
• A trust company (for more complex or large estates)
• A professional (like your lawyer or accountant)

You can also separate the duties — name one person to handle money, one for the estate and one as guardian for minor children.

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A Quick Word on Compensation

Executors in Ontario are entitled to fair compensation, usually between 3% to 5% of the estate’s value. If you’re asking someone to take this on, acknowledge the workload.

Try and stay organized and keep your affairs in order as much as possible. No one wants to be surprised by a mountain of T4s and a shoebox full of receipts.

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Bottom Line

Choosing the right executor isn’t about tradition, guilt, or family hierarchy. It’s about picking someone who can handle the job — and won’t cause chaos along the way.

Need help figuring out who’s right? Or wondering if your chosen person is up to the task? We’ve helped hundreds of Ontarians create clear, conflict-free Wills. We’d be happy to help you too.

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📞 Book a consultation, call us at 416-620-0362 or download our Estate Planning Worksheet to get started.

P.S. If you’re a parent who’s about to name your kids in age order — we beg you, let’s talk first.