Professional Representative*
For families seeking a professional executor to be responsible for the estate settlement, with ClearEstate handling the administrative burden, providing total peace of mind
- ClearEstate's trust partner acts as estate representative, while ClearEstate acts as agent, to professionally manage the estate settlement*
- ClearEstate carries out entire estate settlement process, typically 200+ hours over 12-18 months
- ClearEstate handles all communications with beneficiaries and 3rd parties
- ClearEstate handles data entry of all estate information
- ClearEstate facilitates the set up of the estate bank account
- ClearEstate facilitates liquidation of assets, payments of liabilities
- ClearEstate arranges the estate distribution and releases
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Settlement plan fees do not include the cost of notarization of signatures or documents, notice to creditors, estate administration tax, costs to transfer real title, services rendered to other professionals, such as appraisers, property managers, etc., or other estate expenses unless otherwise specified.
Some estates are more complicated to settle, such as where there are multiple executors, business interests, trusts, multi-jurisdictions, or where legislation requires an attorney or there is legal or tax advice or additional documents needed. In such cases, add-ons may apply and/or it may be necessary to engage external professionals at an additional cost to the estate.
*Professional Representative plan is provided in partnership with ClearEstate's trust partner (Natcan Trust Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the National Bank of Canada) and is subject to partner and court approval.
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FAQs about estate settlement
Probate is the legal process that confirms a will is valid and officially appoints the executor who will manage the estate. This step gives the executor the authority to collect assets, pay debts, and distribute what's left according to the will. ClearEstate helps simplify and guide you through this often complex process.
The length of the probate process can vary widely depending on the complexity of the estate and the rules in the jurisdiction where it’s being settled. In general, probate can usually take several weeks to several months. The entire estate settlement process can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months.
Probate fees are charged by the court when applying for probate. The amount varies by province and is usually based on the total value of the estate.
For example:
- Ontario charges roughly 1.5% of the estate’s value (with the first $50,000 exempt).
- British Columbia charges about 1.4% after a small exemption.
- Alberta uses a flat fee structure, generally capped at a few hundred dollars.
Because every jurisdiction has its own rules and thresholds, the total amount can differ significantly. To make it easier, ClearEstate offers a free Probate Fee Calculator so you can estimate costs quickly and accurately based on where you live and the size of the estate.
During your 30-minute consultation, you'll speak with an experienced estate specialist who will review your situation, answer any questions you have, and walk you through potential next steps. Whether you're planning ahead or navigating a recent loss, this no-obligation session is designed to help you understand your options and determine if ClearEstate is the right fit for your needs.
Yes. ClearEstate can prepare and file all necessary probate documents on your behalf, ensuring they meet the legal requirements of your jurisdiction. If your case involves additional legal steps or complexities, we'll coordinate with legal professionals from our partner network to support you every step of the way.