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Private Trust

Executor Assistance


An Estate and Trust Specialist advising two executors.Professional Executor assistance when you need it

Being named an Executor is an honour, but also a responsibility.

Most people called on to be Executors find that it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience so it's no wonder they don't understand the full scope of their obligations.

The duties of an Executor require knowledge in law, real estate, taxes, investment management and other areas. As well, substantial time is involved with paperwork, administration, dealing with probate and the distribution of the estate. An average estate can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months to settle while the time required to settle complex estates could be spread out over years.

For many Executors, the extensive administration and financial responsibilities can seem overwhelming. You are accountable for carrying out the deceased's wishes as expressed in the Will, in keeping with provincial or international laws, as well as controlling all aspects of the estate's administration. The responsibilities include identifying, protecting and valuing the assets, distributing those assets to the beneficiaries and settling all tax issues. You may have to deal with lawyers, the Canada Revenue Agency, property appraisers, pension departments, government departments and more.

Very often, your duties will be complex and time-consuming and you are legally accountable to the beneficiaries. TD Waterhouse Estate and Trust Specialists can provide you with the help you need – you don't have to do it alone.

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We can help with every step

When you use our Executor Assistance service, you retain complete control over all decisions affecting the estate while we take care of as much of the estate's administration as you specify.

Whether you choose to have TD Waterhouse Private Trust assist you throughout the estate settlement or retain us for specific areas of expertise, we will work closely with you and the estate's beneficiaries to keep you fully informed, as well as provide the service you need.

The benefits of Executor Assistance

With our Executor Assistance service, you can expect to –

  • Reduce the risk of personal liability
  • Obtain a quicker settlement of the estate, in many cases
  • Gain access to our in-house specialists in tax, estate planning, investments and other key areas
  • Save time and potentially save money
  • Maintain family harmony and minimize conflict
  • Remove a burden during an emotional time when you may be grieving and unable to deal with the duties of being an Executor

Our Executor fees are determined according to the same guidelines that apply to all Executors. These have been established by the courts in most provinces and depend on the estate's complexity and the amount of time required. All fees are payable by the estate and are partially tax-deductible.

The benefits of working with Estate and Trust Specialists

At Private Trust, you will find us accessible, understanding and attentive – important characteristics as we help you fulfill your responsibilities as an Executor.

Look to us for –

  • The convenience of having a dedicated Estate and Trust Specialist to coordinate all services
  • The efficiency of having access to a team of specialists for all your estate, trust, tax and investment matters
  • The peace of mind of knowing that you will receive sound advice and professional administration

Contact us today

If you're looking for an experienced professional to give you guidance on acting as an executor, simply contact the TD Waterhouse Private Trust office nearest you to arrange a meeting with one of our Specialists or call 1-866-280-2022.